Free agency always reshapes the NFL landscape, especially when proven defensive playmakers enter the conversation. This time, a two-time Pro Bowl cornerback has suddenly emerged as a potential target for multiple contenders.
Recent reports suggest both the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Jets could explore signing the talented defensive back if he becomes available. With both franchises looking to strengthen their secondaries, the possibility of landing a high-impact corner could significantly reshape their defenses heading into the new season.
Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets Could Pursue Tre’Davious White in Free Agency
The Steelers’ defense delivered a mixed performance during the 2025 NFL season. The unit finished 17th in the NFL in points allowed, giving up 387 total points, or 22.8 per game. However, the defense struggled overall, allowing approximately 357 yards per game. Those numbers reflected inconsistency across the unit and highlighted the need for additional defensive playmakers, particularly in the secondary.
The Jets’ defense struggled significantly during the 2025 NFL season and finished among the league’s worst units. The team ranked 31st in the NFL in scoring defense, allowing 503 total points, which equals 29.6 points per game. The defense also allowed approximately 355 total yards per game. In addition, the Jets gave up 139.5 rushing yards per game, highlighting major issues stopping opposing offenses.
That is exactly why both the Steelers and the Jets could look to strengthen their secondary by pursuing Tre’Davious White in free agency. The two-time Pro Bowler brings experience, ball-hawking ability, and proven production at cornerback. For teams that struggled with defensive consistency in 2025, adding a veteran playmaker like White could help stabilize the secondary and provide much-needed leadership in the defensive backfield. Per PFSN’s CB metrics, White scored 82.0 points or a grade of B-.
Tre’Davious White’s Career Production
White has posted solid numbers since entering the NFL as a first-round pick in 2017. Across his career, he has played over 100 games and recorded more than 370 total tackles. The veteran cornerback has also registered 19 interceptions, more than 80 pass deflections, and multiple forced fumbles and fumble recoveries.
White’s most dominant season came in 2019, when he recorded six interceptions and 17 pass breakups, finishing as the NFL’s interceptions co-leader while earning First-Team All-Pro honors. He also made the Pro Bowl in 2019 and 2020, establishing himself as one of the league’s premier cornerbacks during his prime.
During the 2025 NFL season, White appeared in 16 games and totaled 40 tackles, including 29 solo, 10 passes defended, and one interception, proving he can still contribute as an experienced playmaker in the secondary despite battling injuries in recent years.
That is precisely why both the Steelers and the Jets could compete to land veteran cornerback White in free agency. With years of experience, strong ball skills, and proven playmaking ability, White continues to offer valuable leadership and stability in the secondary.
