Former Steelers DB Finds New Team
Former Pittsburgh Steelers practice squad defensive back Kalon Barnes has taken his talents north, signing with the Edmonton Elks of the Canadian Football League (CFL).
Barnes had two stints on the Steelers’ practice squad across the 2023 and 2024 seasons. His only NFL game experience came during the 2022 season, when he played on special teams in two games for the Minnesota Vikings.
A Baylor University product, Barnes was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft (No. 242 overall). Between 2022 and 2024, he had brief spells with six NFL teams — the Panthers, Dolphins, Vikings, Steelers, Jets, and Browns. Most recently, he was part of the San Antonio Brahmas of the XFL but was released in March 2025 following an injury during training camp.
Barnes is best known for his blazing speed, clocking a 4.23-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine — the fastest ever recorded by a cornerback. While his athleticism caught the attention of scouts, his modest stats at Baylor contributed to his late draft position, and he has struggled to translate his raw potential into consistent production at the pro level.
The Edmonton Elks, who ended their 2024 CFL season with a 7–11 record and missed the playoffs, are hoping Barnes can help strengthen their defense heading into the new season.
