Steelers grab another undrafted free agent, sign former Kentucky defensive end TJ Carter

Apr. 9—Adding depth to their defensive line, the Pittsburgh Steelers signed former undrafted free agent TJ Carter on Friday.

Carter, a 6-foot-4, 289-pound defensive end, was a member of the 2020 draft class. He was signed by Arizona but was cut after a week with the organization. He spent the regular season as a street free agent.

In four seasons at Kentucky, Carter made 28 starts while appearing in 50 games. He totaled 71 tackles, including 21 for loss, six sacks and 10 quarterback pressures. He also deflected five passes.

Carter returned to Kentucky for the school's pro day this year, and he caught the attention of the Steelers. His pro day was canceled in 2020 because of covid-19.

"He deserved an opportunity," Kentucky coach Mark Stoops told reporters at the pro day. "TJ did not have that a year ago because of covid, and so it was really good to give him that opportunity today. He's been working really hard. I know he's been close with some teams that are looking at him. Hopefully, he caught some eyes out there."

Carter was part of a draft class that was one of the most productive groups in Kentucky history, finishing with 32 wins and four bowl appearances. Among his teammates was Steelers running back Benny Snell.

Carter's most viable path to making the Steelers will be via the practice squad. Already on the roster fighting for spots as backups are Chris Wormley, Isaiah Buggs, Henry Mondeaux, Demarcus Christmas and Carlos Davis. All but Christmas played in the NFL last season with the Steelers.

The Carter signing gives the Steelers 72 players under contract. The Steelers will add eight players via the draft and, unless they sign more NFL free agents, will fill out the remainder of the 90-man offseason roster with undrafted free agents.

Carter is the fifth player the Steelers have signed following a pro day this spring. The others are wide receivers Mathew Sexton and Tyler Simmons, plus linebackers Jarvis Miller and Jamir Jones.

Joe Rutter is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Joe by email at jrutter@triblive.com or via Twitter .