The Pittsburgh Steelers have confirmed yet another tough departure, as versatile safety Terrell Edmunds is set to join one of their NFL rivals — the Las Vegas Raiders. According to multiple reports, Edmunds has agreed to terms with the Raiders, marking the end of his second stint in Pittsburgh and the beginning of a new chapter in his career.
This move is a significant shake-up for the Steelers’ secondary, particularly given Edmunds’ long history with the franchise. Drafted in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Edmunds quickly established himself as a dependable presence in Pittsburgh’s defense. Over the years, he became known for his versatility, physical style of play, and ability to contribute both in pass coverage and run support.
Edmunds’ first tenure with the Steelers lasted from 2018 to 2022. During that span, he was a consistent starter and built strong chemistry with star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, forming one of the most recognizable safety duos in the league. Despite his reliability, the Steelers opted not to exercise his fifth-year option after his rookie deal, instead re-signing him to a shorter-term contract in 2022. That decision was largely influenced by salary cap considerations and the team’s desire to maintain roster flexibility.
Following the 2022 season, Edmunds explored free agency and had a brief stint away from Pittsburgh. However, circumstances brought him back early last season when the Steelers were hit with a wave of injuries in the safety room. His return provided much-needed stability and leadership, and he once again took the field alongside Fitzpatrick, contributing to the team’s defensive schemes with his usual poise and experience.
Now, Edmunds will take his talents to the Las Vegas Raiders, where he will have the opportunity to work under veteran head coach Pete Carroll, who recently took over the team. For the Raiders, this acquisition adds a proven and adaptable defensive back who can immediately compete for a starting role. His ability to play both strong and free safety — and even contribute in certain hybrid linebacker roles — gives the Raiders valuable flexibility in designing their defensive packages.
For Pittsburgh, the move is bittersweet. On one hand, the Steelers are continuing to retool their roster, with younger players and new acquisitions vying for starting spots in the secondary. On the other hand, Edmunds’ departure means losing a steady veteran who understood the team’s defensive philosophy and had years of on-field chemistry with Fitzpatrick and other core defenders.
Edmunds leaves Pittsburgh with a solid career résumé: over 400 total tackles, multiple interceptions, and a reputation as a physical, durable, and intelligent player. He was rarely sidelined by injuries, starting the vast majority of games during his Steelers career. His consistency, combined with his ability to adapt to different defensive schemes, made him a trusted figure for the coaching staff.
While Steelers fans may be disappointed to see Edmunds suit up for a rival franchise, there is also a sense of appreciation for his years of service. He was a model teammate, a hardworking professional, and someone who brought stability to the defensive backfield through multiple roster transitions.
The Las Vegas Raiders, meanwhile, are betting that Edmunds’ experience, leadership, and versatility will help bolster a defense that has struggled with consistency in recent seasons. With Pete Carroll now overseeing the team, Edmunds could be used in creative ways, possibly in expanded coverage roles or as part of a more aggressive blitzing strategy.
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, Edmunds will now look to make an impact in silver and black, while the Steelers move forward with their next generation of defensive talent. His departure marks the end of an era in Pittsburgh’s secondary — and the beginning of a new chapter with a divisional rival determined to climb the AFC standings.
If you’d like, I can also create a full career timeline of Terrell Edmunds highlighting his key plays, stats, and milestones with the Steelers before this move.
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