Introduction
Shilo Sanders, son of NFL legend Deion Sanders and older brother of quarterback Shedeur Sanders, has become a hot topic. Many fans ask the same question: Did the Pittsburgh Steelers sign Shilo Sanders? Some believe he was picked up by the Steelers during the offseason. Others say he only worked out for them. This article clears up the confusion. We’ll look at his path from college to the NFL, explain his Buccaneers contract, and uncover whether the Steelers ever made a move.
Early Years and College Career
Shilo Sanders was born on February 9, 2000, in Dallas, Texas. At Trinity Christian High School, he showed versatility by playing safety, receiver, and returner. His father, Deion Sanders, coached him closely and built his foundation in football.
Shilo’s college career took several turns. He started at South Carolina, transferred to Jackson State, and later played at Colorado. Along the way, he produced interceptions, forced fumbles, and even a pick-six. His play at Jackson State earned him second-team All-SWAC honors. By his senior season, scouts viewed him as a solid, hard-hitting safety with leadership potential.
NFL Draft Journey
In 2025, Shilo declared for the NFL Draft. Despite a good résumé, he went undrafted. At Colorado’s NFL showcase, however, he ran an impressive 4.52-second 40-yard dash. This caught the eye of several teams.
Notably, the Pittsburgh Steelers sent scouts to watch him. Reports confirmed that he spoke with their staff after his workout. Still, the Steelers never offered him a deal. Speculation about Pittsburgh’s interest began here, but nothing concrete followed.
Signing With the Buccaneers
Right after the draft, Shilo signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent. His contract was worth about $2.97 million over three years, though his signing bonus was only $1,572.
Deion Sanders thanked Bucs head coach Todd Bowles for giving his son a chance. Shilo joked with reporters at rookie camp, saying, “I don’t even have a team code yet.” His humor showed confidence, even as he fought for a roster spot.
In the preseason opener against the Tennessee Titans, Shilo recorded a solo tackle and a quarterback hit. Afterward, he offered his jersey to his dad. Deion refused, saying he wanted to wait until Shilo earned it. Instead, Shilo gave the jersey to his mother.
Preseason Struggles
In Week 2, Tampa faced the Pittsburgh Steelers. Ironically, this matchup fueled the rumor mill. Shilo recorded only two solo tackles and missed several key plays. Analysts criticized his coverage skills and tackling.
NFL writer J.T. Olson said, “He figuratively and literally fell flat on his face.” With that performance, his roster spot looked shaky.
The Buccaneers already had depth at safety, with J.J. Roberts and others ahead on the depth chart. Analysts projected Shilo as more of a practice squad player than a 53-man roster lock.
Still, coach Todd Bowles praised Shilo’s energy and aggression. General manager Jason Licht also noted his good character and work ethic. But potential wasn’t enough in a crowded safety room. Shilo Sanders Steelers signing.
Ejection and Release
In the last preseason game, Shilo made headlines again—but for the wrong reason. Against the Buffalo Bills, he slapped a tight end’s helmet after a play. The referee ejected him immediately.
Coach Todd Bowles called the action “inexcusable.” The next day, Tampa Bay waived Shilo Sanders. His time with the Buccaneers ended before the regular season.
Steelers Rumors Explained
So, did the Steelers sign Shilo Sanders? The answer is no.
The confusion comes from several factors:
-
Steelers scouts attended his pro day.
-
Some analysts predicted Pittsburgh could be a fit if Tampa released him.
-
He even played against them in preseason, which fueled speculation.
However, Shilo never signed with the Steelers. He remains a free agent after his release from the Buccaneers.
What’s Next for Shilo Sanders?
Shilo is currently a free agent. Some reports suggest Tampa might bring him back on the practice squad. Others believe a team like Pittsburgh could take a chance if they need safety depth.
For now, his future is uncertain. He has the athleticism, energy, and name recognition to get another opportunity. The question is whether a team will give him a second chance after his short stint in Tampa. Shilo Sanders Steelers signing.
Quick Facts About Shilo Sanders
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Did the Steelers sign Shilo Sanders? | No, they never signed or picked him up. |
| Which team did sign him? | Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2025, as an undrafted free agent). |
| Why was he released? | He was ejected for hitting a Bills player in preseason. |
| Current NFL status? | Free agent. |
| Could the Steelers still sign him? | Yes, but there’s no official report of interest right now. |
Conclusion
The buzz around Shilo Sanders and the Pittsburgh Steelers is mostly rumor. While the team showed interest during his pre-draft showcase, they never signed him. His only NFL contract so far came with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he played briefly before being released in the 2025 preseason.
Shilo’s journey proves that NFL opportunities can come and go quickly. With his talent and family legacy, another chance may still appear. Whether that chance comes from Pittsburgh or another franchise remains to be seen. Shilo Sanders Steelers signing.
FAQs
Q1: Did Shilo Sanders ever join the Steelers?
No. He never signed with Pittsburgh.
Q2: Which team signed Shilo Sanders?
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed him in April 2025.
Q3: Why did Tampa Bay release him?
He was waived after being ejected for hitting an opponent in preseason.
Q4: Could he still play for the Steelers?
Yes, if they choose to sign him. But as of now, there’s no report of a deal.
Q5: Where did Shilo play in college?
He played at South Carolina, Jackson State, and Colorado.
