Packers Cornerback Following Slot CB The Pittsburgh Steelers have recently signed cornerback Kiondre Thomas in response to a significant setback in their secondary. This move comes after slot cornerback Grayland Arnold was placed on injured reserve due to a calf injury he sustained during Wednesday’s practice. Arnold is expected to miss the remainder of the season unless the Steelers decide to release him from injured reserve through an injury settlement.
With Arnold sidelined, Thomas now has the opportunity to prove himself with the Steelers. During the joint practice sessions with the Buffalo Bills, Thomas demonstrated his potential by making an impressive play. In the 7-on-7 drills, he successfully stripped the ball from a wide receiver, causing a fumble. Additionally, Thomas was effective in one-on-one drills, where he managed to force two incompletions, showcasing his defensive skills and making a strong impression on his new team.
Kiondre Thomas entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent from Kansas State and has since played with several teams. His professional journey includes stints with the Cleveland Browns, Los Angeles Chargers, Carolina Panthers, and Green Bay Packers. Of these, his longest tenure was with the Packers, where he was part of the roster from 2022 to 2023. Despite this experience, Thomas has recorded only one tackle in his career so far.
Most recently, Thomas was with the Carolina Panthers but was released at the beginning of August. Following his release, the Steelers brought him in for a tryout, and he impressed enough to earn a contract. Throughout his career, Thomas has participated in four NFL games—one with the Packers and four with the Chargers in 2021. His versatility allows him to play both inside and outside positions in the secondary, thanks to his speed and agility.
The Steelers’ decision to sign Thomas reflects their need to address depth concerns in their defensive backfield, particularly with Arnold’s absence. Thomas’s ability to cover multiple positions could be beneficial for the Steelers as they adjust their lineup and strategies. His performance during the joint practice with the Bills has provided a promising glimpse of his potential contributions to the team.
As the Steelers move forward with their season, they will be looking to Thomas to fill the void left by Arnold and provide stability in their secondary. With the opportunity to demonstrate his capabilities, Thomas has a chance to establish himself as a valuable asset for the Steelers and make a meaningful impact on the field.
