The Pittsburgh Steelers are bringing back a familiar face, re-signing veteran running back Trey Sermon as they gear up for a crucial stretch of the season. Sermon, who’s had a bit of a revolving-door relationship with the team since rookie minicamp, has now suited up for Pittsburgh in three games this year. And while his numbers don’t jump off the page, his return signals the Steelers are looking for depth, stability, and a back who knows the system as they push toward a potential division crown.
Sermon’s NFL journey has been anything but linear. Drafted in the third round back in 2021 by the San Francisco 49ers, he’s since made stops in Philadelphia, Indianapolis, and now Pittsburgh.
Across 46 career games, he’s totaled 505 rushing yards on 134 carries with three touchdowns - solid production for a back who’s been asked to fill in rather than lead the charge. His physical running style and familiarity with Pittsburgh’s offense make him a reliable insurance policy as the postseason picture starts to take shape.
And speaking of the playoff picture - the Steelers have a real opportunity to put pressure on the AFC North-leading Baltimore Ravens this weekend. If Pittsburgh takes care of business against the Detroit Lions, the Ravens would suddenly find themselves in a tight spot. Baltimore would then need to beat either the Patriots or the Packers just to make their Week 18 showdown with the Steelers meaningful.
There’s even a scenario where Pittsburgh could lock up the division before that final game. If they win their next two and the Ravens stumble - going 1-1 or dropping both - the AFC North would belong to the Steelers without needing a Week 18 decider. That’s the kind of leverage every team wants heading into the final stretch.
For now, Sermon’s return is a subtle but strategic move. He may not be the centerpiece of the offense, but in a league where depth matters more than ever - especially in December - having a back who knows the playbook and can step in when needed could prove valuable.
Bottom line: the Steelers are positioning themselves for a strong finish, and every roster move, including this one, reflects that focus.