The Steelers signed two veterans today, offensive lineman Trai Essex to a two-year contract and cornerback Fernando Bryant for oneyear.

Essex, who will enter his fifth season with the Steelers, will receive a signing bonus of $500,000 on a total contract worth nearly $2 million.

His signing means the Steelers have been able to keep four of their free agent offensive linemen. They previously signed Chris Kemoeatu to a five-year deal and have tackles Willie Colon and Max Starks under one-year contracts. They also released guard Kendall Simmons and did not try to re-sign tackle Marvel Smith.

Bryant, who turns 32 next week, signed a one-year deal with the Steelers Nov. 11 as a free agent. He played in just two games for them and did not suit up since Nov. 20 for a game. However, he gives them veteran depth at the position after they lost free agent Bryant McFadden, who signed with Arizona last week.

Essex and Bryant had become unrestricted free agents Feb. 27.