Report: Pittsburgh Steelers set to sign All-Pro returner Jamal Agnew to practice squad

The Pittsburgh Steelers (7-2) have signed receiver Jamal Agnew to their practice squad, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported Tuesday.

Agnew, 29, has yet to play in 2024 after spending the previous three seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars (2-8). Pittsburgh initially held a workout for him in early September.

While Agnew holds the title as a receiver and has made plays in the passing game, his calling card is his kick/punt return ability. Since entering the NFL in 2017, Agnew has taken four punt returns for touchdowns and two kick returns for touchdowns.

Agnew earned All-Pro honors as a rookie with the Detroit Lions (8-1) and a Pro Bowl selection in 2022. He has hauled in 77 receptions for 746 yards and five scores as a wideout. Agnew ran for a 66-yard score in 2021.

Steelers add another offensive weapon in Jamal Agnew

If/when activated from the practice squad, Agnew will likely get a look as the team’s kick/punt returner. The Steelers have compiled 264 yards on 12 kickoff returns and 226 yards on 19 punt returns. Calvin Austin III had a 73-yard punt return for a touchdown in Week 8 against the New York Giants (2-8).

The Lions selected Agnew as a cornerback in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft out of San Diego. Agnew played on defense for three seasons before transitioning to offense in 2020.