Steelers Now
PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh Steelers safety Juan Thornhill has no ill will toward his former team the Cleveland Browns, but that doesn’t mean he’s not chomping at the bit to face them twice in 2025.
“I ain’t got no issues with Cleveland,” Thronhill said. “I’m not worried about them, but they definitely got to see me two times a year. I’m excited about the opportunity for sure.’
In May, Thornhill appeared to take a shot at the Browns, posting on X, “Can’t wait !!! This shit is Personal.” Thornhill made the post shortly after the Browns signed former Steelers safety Damontae Kazee.
Thornhill did not leave on good terms with the Browns, especially among the fanbase who constantly rip him for his effort on a 71-yard touchdown by New Orleans Saints wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling last season.
Thornhill admitted that he was tired on the play. But insists he did not just flat-out quit, which is what Browns fans claim.
Thronhill has turned heads at minciamp. He could play a big role in the Steelers defense this season as a third safety.
“I surprised myself a little bit,” Thornhill said. “I was worried, new defense, maybe it would take me some time. But when I got out there, it was natural, and I knew I could go make plays.”
Thronhill is willing to do whatever it takes to get on the field.
“If they want me back deep, in the box, hanging over the slot, wherever, I can do it. I’m versatile,” Thronhill said.
In his six-year career, Thornhill has appeared in 87 games with 74 starts and recorded 337 tackles, six tackles for loss, seven quarterback hits, 24 passes defended, eight interceptions, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and one sack.
Thornhill will get his first shot at the Browns in Week 6 at Acrisure Stadium. Thornhill’s return to Cleveland will take place on Dec. 28.
Alan Saunders and Brendan Howe provided reporting from Pittsburgh.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Steelers Safety Juan Thornhill Puts Browns on Notice: ‘Gotta See Me Two Times’
