dq. Pittsburgh Steelers Re-Sign Multi-Position Playmaker, Reinforcing Playoff Ambitions

The Pittsburgh Steelers have added a crucial piece for the stretch run of the season by re-signing John Rhys Plumlee, the versatile offensive weapon who has accumulated more than 9,000 total yards across his college career and early NFL journey. While this is technically a practice squad addition, inside the organization it is viewed as a strategic move that signals Pittsburgh’s clear intention to strengthen its push toward the AFC playoff picture.

Plumlee, 24, is known for his rare ability to contribute at multiple positions. Originally a dynamic dual-threat quarterback with elite speed, he totaled more than 60 touchdowns in college and posted a sub-4.4 forty-yard dash. When he first joined the Steelers in 2024, he was tested at wide receiver, kick returner, and punt returner, proving his versatility despite ultimately being released due to roster constraints.

After his departure from Pittsburgh, Plumlee navigated a challenging journey through the Jaguars and Seahawks. He flashed in preseason with explosive punt returns, open-field runs, and gadget-style plays that showcased his playmaking upside. In Seattle, he made the full transition from quarterback to wide receiver — a demanding shift that required significant adaptation. DK Metcalf personally helped him adjust, sharpening his route-running technique and spatial understanding.

This reunion is not merely about depth. It reflects the Steelers’ calculated preparation for the high-pressure end of the season, where every move can alter the trajectory of the playoff race.

Head coach Mike Tomlin underscored the importance of the signing with a forceful message:

“Plumlee isn’t just a necessary addition — he is a clear statement that we are fully prepared to enter the do-or-die stretch of the season. We want to compete, we want to earn a playoff spot, and we need players who can shift the momentum of a game at any moment. John brings exactly that — versatility, explosiveness, and a refusal to ever back down, the kind of qualities that can change the course of an entire season in a single moment.”

Plumlee will begin on the practice squad, but his path to the active roster is wide open. With his speed, adaptability, and ability to fill multiple roles, he could become a creative offensive weapon precisely when Pittsburgh needs additional firepower.

In a fiercely competitive AFC race, every advantage matters. And John Rhys Plumlee’s return arrives at exactly the right time for the Steelers.