Brandin Echols shadowed Egbuka on the play that produced the one-handed TD and showed sticky man coverage in preseason. His presence in practice and the game provides Tampa Bay with a real, challenging matchup for the rookie, highlighting the early test Egbuka faces as he tries to carve out Week 1 reps.

Brandin Echols spoke candidly about the Steelers’ defense, calling the joint-practice start flat and pledging to come out stronger, highlighting the unit’s focus on energy and cohesion as preseason action looms.

Echols adds depth at corner and could be a meaningful depth piece in sub-packages. His progress may determine how PIT uses rotation to preserve Watt and Ramsey while maintaining field presence, with Echols contributing on special teams and as a developmental option in coverage.

Brandin Echols is the current No. 26 for the Steelers, signed a two-year deal in March and has flashed in training camp and preseason, signaling a likely role on the 2025 defense and a potential sleeper pick for fantasy manageers seeking depth in the Steelers secondary.

Brandin Echols finds himself in a precarious position following the Steelers' addition of Ramsey and Slay, as competition for roster spots intensifies.