There are few rivals in the NFL that dislike each other more than the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns. The two AFC North teams always bring a little extra to the field when they play each other.
During the 2025 NFL offseason, there was one player who made a switch in the rivalry.
Juan Thornhill, the former safety for the Browns, decided to take his talents to the Steelers. He will now face off against his old team twice this season.
Juan Thornhill #1 of the Cleveland Browns looks on during the game against the New Orleans Saints at Caesars Superdome on November 17, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Juan Thornhill #1 of the Cleveland Browns looks on during the game against the New Orleans Saints at Caesars Superdome on November 17, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images
With the matchups now officially on the schedule for him, Thornhill fired off a bold warning to his old team and teammates. It’s clear that he’s ready to play against and ideally beat Cleveland.
“They’ve definitely got to see me two times a year,” Thornhill said. “I’m excited about that opportunity.”
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Thornhill’s tenure with the Browns did not end on great terms. He dealt with some injury issues that cost him time on the field, which led to Cleveland releasing him with one year remaining on his deal.
Throughout his tenure, there were many different rumblings about the two sides parting ways.
Of course, prior to Thornhill’s two-year tenure with the Browns, he was a key part of the Kansas City Chiefs. He won two Super Bowls with the Chiefs and will look to add another ring to his collection with Pittsburgh.
He has played in 87 career games so far in his six years in the NFL. In those 87 games, he has racked up 337 total tackles to go along with a sack, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, eight interceptions, a defensive touchdown, and 24 defended passes.
More than likely, Thornhill will be a backup behind Minkah Fitzpatrick with the Steelers. He may not be a “starter,” but there is a good chance that he will fill some kind of role for the Pittsburgh defense.
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When he is healthy, he’s more than capable of being an impact player. That can be seen from his time in Kansas City.
Hopefully, the 29-year-old defensive back will be able to get his career on track and stay healthy with the Steelers. He’s clearly fired up to play against his old team, which will help bring even more of a chip to the field in the rivalry.
For more Pittsburgh Steelers, Cleveland Browns, and NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
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