The Pittsburgh Steelers face questions about their offseason changes, with analysts identifying the secondary as a critical area of concern. After trading Minkah Fitzpatrick, the team’s defensive backfield lacks the leadership and playmaking ability needed to sustain a high level of performance.
The departure of Fitzpatrick has left a significant void in the Steelers’ defense. While they added Jalen Ramsey and signed Juan Thornhill, these moves have not entirely addressed the holes left by the All-Pro safety. The current roster features untested players vying for key roles, raising doubts about their ability to handle high-powered offenses. This gap has been highlighted as a potential long-term issue.
Los Angeles Rams, Jalen Ramsey, NFL, AFC North, Pittsburgh Steelers
Jan 5, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Jalen Ramsey (5) celebrates a defensive stop during the first quarteragainst the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
A league insider compared the team’s roster overhaul to the Philadelphia Eagles’ 2011 “dream team,” which failed to meet expectations. Despite adding marquee names like Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf, Pittsburgh remains a team with glaring weaknesses. The secondary, in particular, has been flagged as a unit that could struggle under the weight of inexperience and lack of cohesion.
Free agent Justin Simmons has been floated as a possible solution, but questions linger about his fit and whether the team align with his desire to join a playoff contender. Even if Simmons were to sign, the secondary would need time to gel, potentially exposing the team early in the season. Analysts suggest that the team’s defensive strategy will require significant adjustments.
NFL Analysis Reveales Pittsburgh Steelers Biggest Need Ahead of the 2025 Season
Los Angeles Rams, Jalen Ramsey, NFL, Pittsburgh Steelers
Nov 3, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Jalen Ramsey (5) warms up prior to the game at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
Pittsburgh may need to address its safety situation ahead of the 2025 season. This is detailed more in an analysis by Josh Edwards for CBS Sports.
Pittsburgh recently acquired cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith, but lost safety Minkah Fitzpatrick in the process. The Steelers signed veteran Juan Thornhill, who was not playing his best football in Cleveland, and DeShon Elliott. If they had identified Fitzpatrick as a problem area for them last season, then the loss is probably not as significant as it may outwardly appear.
The offensive line suffered significant injury last season and Dan Moore Jr. is no longer there to bail them out at left tackle, so that could develop into a problem.
The Steelers’ offseason moves, while bold, have created as many questions as answers. The pressure to win now has led to a patchwork roster that may struggle to find its identity. The secondary, in particular, will need to step up to avoid becoming a liability.
Pittsburgh Steelers, Jalen Ramsey
Dec 24, 2023; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Jalen Ramsey (5) reacts on the field prior to the game Dallas Cowboys at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
As Pittsburgh prepares for the season, the success of their defense will depend on how effectively they address this critical need. Without substantial improvement, the secondary could be the Achilles’ heel in their playoff aspirations.
Pittsburgh Steelers, Jalen Ramsey
Miami Dolphins cornerback Jalen Ramsey (5) intercepts a pass intended for Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Tre Tucker (11) late in the game as Miami Dolphins safety DeShon Elliott (21) closes in during the fourth quarter of an NFL game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Nov. 19, 2023.
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