Pittsburgh Steelers sign former Lions All-Pro

PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Steelers are adding a big name to their practice squad, signing former Detroit Lions All-Pro wide receiver/kick returner Jamal Agnew, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Agnew, 29, began his career in Detroit as a fifth-round pick of the Lions in the 2017 NFL Draft. He played four seasons in the NFC North before joining the Jaguars in 2021. In 2017, Agnew led the NFL with 447 punt return yards and had two touchdowns. As a rookie, he was named First-Team All-Pro and played in only 13 games.

In 2022, he was named to the Pro Bowl for the first time after finishing the season with 205 punt return yards and 547 kick return yards. In 2023, he suffered a season-ending rib and shoulder injury in Week 10, but now with the Steelers he is expected to be healthy.

The former San Diego player entered the NFL as a defensive back but switched to wide receiver during his final season with the Lions. Over his career, he has caught 77 passes for 746 yards.

Agnew will initially join the Steelers' practice squad and has the potential to become a member of the 53-man roster. Pittsburgh's special teams unit has been on a roll this season, but could be without punt returner Calvin Austin for the time being due to a head injury.

Austin left Week 10 to be evaluated for a concussion after being tackled late in the second half. It is unknown if he has a concussion, but Pittsburgh's addition of Agnew could indicate he will miss some time.

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