True free agency didn't last long for cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon.
One day after the NFL's free agency period began Wednesday, the Steelers re-signed Witherspoon to a two-year deal, keeping a valuable member of their defense in Pittsburgh. The deal is for $8 million.
Witherspoon, who turns 27 next week, appeared in nine games with the Steelers in 2021 after coming to the team in a trade at the end of training cap from the Seahawks. The Steelers gave up a 2023 fifth-round to acquire Witherspoon.
While it took Witherspoon some time to get onto the field, when he did, the results were good. He finished the season with 15 tackles, nine pass defenses and tied for the team lead with three interceptions.
Originally a third-round pick of the 49ers, Witherspoon signed with the Seahawks as a restricted free agent, making $4 million last season.
He joins former Bills cornerback Levi Wallace, who also signed a two-year, $8-million deal, along with holdover Cam Sutton as the Steelers' top three cornerbacks.
Witherspoon is expected to help ease the potential loss of Joe Haden in free agency. Haden, who turns 33 in April, is now not expected re-sign with the Steelers.
Late last week, backup safety Miles Killebrew and nickel cornerback Arthur Maulet also were re-signed to two-year deals for veteran minimum salaries.