Steelers Sign Ex-Bears Safety Jaquan Brisker to $5.5M Contract

The one-year deal gives Brisker a chance to earn a starting role in Pittsburgh's secondary.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 12:18am

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The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed former Chicago Bears safety Jaquan Brisker to a one-year, $5.5 million contract. Brisker, who started for the Bears over the past four seasons, will look to earn a starting role in the Steelers' secondary alongside DeShon Elliott and Jalen Ramsey.

Why it matters

The Steelers are looking to bolster their defensive backfield after a disappointing season, and Brisker provides an experienced and versatile option who can play both safety and cornerback. At just 27 years old, Brisker has the potential to be a long-term piece for Pittsburgh's defense.

The details

Brisker, a fourth-round pick by the Bears in 2022, started 15 games for Chicago last season, recording 93 combined tackles, one sack, eight pass deflections, and one interception. The one-year, $5.5 million contract is considered a 'prove-it' deal for Brisker, who will look to solidify his role in the Steelers' secondary and potentially earn a more lucrative long-term contract.

  • Brisker signed with the Steelers on March 13, 2026.

The players

Jaquan Brisker

A 27-year-old safety who spent the first four seasons of his NFL career with the Chicago Bears before signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-year, $5.5 million contract.

DeShon Elliott

A safety who currently plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers and will likely be paired with Jaquan Brisker in the team's secondary.

Jalen Ramsey

A cornerback who recently joined the Pittsburgh Steelers and will form a formidable defensive backfield alongside Jaquan Brisker and DeShon Elliott.

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What’s next

Brisker will look to earn a starting role in the Steelers' secondary during training camp and the preseason, with the goal of solidifying his future in Pittsburgh beyond the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Steelers' signing of Jaquan Brisker on a one-year 'prove-it' deal represents a low-risk, high-reward move for the team as they look to bolster their defensive backfield. If Brisker can build on his strong play with the Bears, he could emerge as a long-term solution in Pittsburgh's secondary.