James Pierre’s journey to the NFL is the kind of story that reminds fans why football is more
than just a game. It’s about heart, perseverance, and refusing to quit when the odds are stacked
against you.
Growing up in South Florida, Pierre faced real challenges. Truancy issues and a tough
neighborhood could have derailed his future, like some of his childhood friends. But strong
mentorship from his high school coaches kept him on track, teaching him the value of discipline,
focus, and making the right choices.
College brought new obstacles. Academic ineligibility forced him to transfer to Florida Atlantic
University, where he had to prove himself all over again—on the field and in the classroom. And
when he declared for the 2020 NFL Draft, timing couldn’t have been worse. The COVID-19
pandemic canceled all pre-draft visits, Pro Days, and team workouts, leaving him without a
traditional platform to showcase his talent. He went undrafted—but he didn’t give up.
Signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers as a free agent, Pierre faced a training camp with no rookie
minicamps, OTAs, or preseason games. Against all odds, he made the 53-man roster—the only
undrafted rookie to do so that year—and played in every game, carving out a role on special
teams.
Since then, Pierre’s path has continued to test him. Non-tendered contracts, being cut by
another team, and returning through the Steelers’ practice squad twice could have ended his
career. Instead, he’s fought every step of the way, turning opportunity into impact. His recent
scoop-and-score touchdown against the Bengals is a perfect example of why fans have started
to cheer him on as a true underdog success story.
James Pierre isn’t a star yet, but he’s a fan-favorite for all the right reasons: resilience, hard
work, and the ability to rise above adversity. From the streets of South Florida to Acrisure
Stadium, he’s proof that heart and determination can take you further than talent alone—and
that every underdog has a chance to shine.