Steelers Host 3 Intriguing Defensive Free Agents For Tryouts

The Pittsburgh Steelers are taking proactive steps to bolster their defensive ranks as they host tryouts for three promising free agent defensive backs. Carthell Flowers-Lloyd, Thomas Graham Jr., and Herb Miller all made their way to the Steelers' practice facility for this pivotal audition on Thursday, according to the NFL transactions page. While the Steelers' motives for these tryouts probably are intended for the 2024 season, their exact plans remain speculative. The Steelers' secondary appears to be getting healthier.

Graham's journey in the NFL has been marked by a rollercoaster of roster moves and opportunities. Drafted by the Chicago Bears in 2021, Graham initially signed a four-year rookie contract, but faced waivers and practice squad assignments. It wasn't until December of his rookie year that Graham finally made his NFL debut, showcasing his potential with seven tackles and three pass breakups. This performance earned him a spot on the active roster, but further roster changes led to his departure in August 2022.

In a twist of fate, Graham found a fresh opportunity with the Cleveland Browns in September 2022, transitioning from the Bears' practice squad. His stint in Cleveland included elevations to the active roster and subsequent practice squad assignments. 

Unfortunately, Graham's 2023 season was cut short due to an August injury, leading to his placement on injured reserve and eventual release in November. Despite the challenges, Graham remains determined to make his mark in the NFL.

Miller's NFL journey started as an undrafted free agent when he signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in May 2019. However, his initial foray into the league faced an abrupt halt during final roster cuts in August 2019. Miller then found himself with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, initially on the practice squad, before earning a coveted spot on the active roster.

His time in Tampa Bay was marked by fluctuating roles, with Miller frequently shifting between the practice squad and active roster. His tenure with the Buccaneers culminated in a memorable Super Bowl championship win in Super Bowl LV. Although he re-signed with the Buccaneers in February 2021, his journey with the team encountered highs and lows, including a release in September 2021. Miller subsequently joined the Browns, where he experienced multiple elevations to the active roster during the 2021 season.

In 2022, Miller briefly joined the Carolina Panthers before being waived in August. Later in 2023, he secured a spot on the Buffalo Bills' practice squad, but was released in December. Despite these challenges, Miller remains steadfast in his pursuit of opportunities in the NFL. Among the defensive backs on trial, he brings a wealth of experience.

Flowers-Lloyd is the most raw athlete on trial. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-2 and weighing 205 pounds, is a defensive powerhouse who attempted to leave a mark in the CFL during the summer season. His respectable performance during 18 games with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats included an impressive 31 tackles, primarily in his role on special teams.

Flowers-Lloyd embarked on his college football journey at Eastern Michigan. After four years with the Eagles, he decided to transfer to Stony Brook at the FCS level for the 2021 and 2022 seasons. It was during this time that Flowers-Lloyd truly blossomed, earning a starting role. Despite the disappointment of going undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft, he seized a thrilling opportunity in the CFL with Hamilton last summer. 

His journey is as unique and he's a true journeyman. While it's unlikely the Steelers would bring on Flowers-Lloyd, he's a guy fighting for a chance at the highest level. 

Steelers Unearthing Hidden Gems

While the names of these three talented individuals will probably never be a household name like Minkah Fitzpatrick, they carry a chip on their shoulders, eager to make a lasting impact. In the world of professional football, hidden gems often emerge from unexpected places. The Steelers' decision to hold these tryouts demonstrates their commitment to constantly evaluate talent and enhance their team. As the saying goes, you never know when the next hidden gem will shine bright, and the NFL's unpredictable nature keeps the hunt for exceptional talent alive.