Steelers Newcomer Fined $10K for Fashion Shoot on Off-Day Before Buccaneers Game

Pittsburgh, PA – August 16, 2025 –
The Pittsburgh Steelers have issued a $10,000 fine to a recent signing after the veteran safety participated in a fashion-related commercial shoot during his off-day, just days before their upcoming preseason clash with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Team sources confirmed the fine stemmed from an appearance scheduled fewer than 48 hours before kickoff. While league rules allow personal endorsements, the timing was deemed to conflict with the franchise’s emphasis on preparation and focus.

The move quickly became a talking point among teammates and coaches, raising questions about professionalism and priorities during the critical game-week window. Pittsburgh’s staff has long insisted that even off-days are part of the build-up to competition.

"When you wear the black and gold of the Steelers, every decision you make must serve one purpose — victory. An off-day isn’t for chasing the spotlight, it’s for being ready to give everything on game day," Head Coach Mike Tomlin said, underscoring the rationale behind the disciplinary action.

The player involved, Juan Thornhill, signed a one-year, $3 million deal with Pittsburgh this offseason after a stint with the Cleveland Browns. The contract includes $1.83 million guaranteed, giving him a $3 million cap hit for 2025.

At 29, Thornhill brings championship pedigree, having won three Super Bowls with the Kansas City Chiefs. He also made a standout tackle in the Steelers’ preseason matchup with the Jaguars, fueling optimism he could replace Damontae Kazee in the secondary.

The fashion shoot, however, placed him under scrutiny at a time when the organization is reinforcing its culture of discipline and collective focus. The fine, according to insiders, is less about the money and more about sending a message.

As the Steelers prepare to face the Buccaneers, fans and coaches alike will be watching Thornhill closely — hoping his next headlines are about game-changing plays on the field rather than off-day distractions.