Pittsburgh Steelers, Tennessee Titans, coaching rumors, Arthur Smith
Getty
Steelers Arthur Smith could be a top candidate to become Titans next head coach.
After a season that saw the Pittsburgh Steelers struggle mightily on defense, it is clear that they are looking to address that side of the football through both free agency and, potentially, the NFL Draft. Not only have they made multiple free-agent signings, including that of Super Bowl-champion cornerback Jamel Dean, but they have brought in possible draft picks on visits.
The latest defensive prospect to visit the Steelers is San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson, according to The Athletic’s Mike DeFabo. Johnson has grown from a three-star recruit into one of the NFL Draft’s most underrated players.
The Pittsburgh Steelers Could Greatly Use Chris Johnson
Jalen Ramsey
GettyJalen Ramsey made his eighth career Pro Bowl after switching from cornerback to safety this past season.
In former head coach Mike Tomlin‘s final season with the team, the Pittsburgh defense finished as the 26th total defense (356.9 YPG) and the 29th pass defense (243.9 YPG). In short, the Steelers’ defense needed help this offseason, especially on the backend.
Dean has been a consistent NFL starter for the last half-decade in Tampa Bay and brings over 61 career pass deflections. Joining Dean as a newcomer in Pittsburgh is former Chicago Bears safety Jaquan Brisker, who recorded over 90 total tackles in three of his four seasons in the Windy City.
Mike DeFabo
The Steelers are also hosting San Diego State CB Chris Johnson.
A likely second-round pick, he’s rated 38th overall by @dpbrugler.
Steelers GM Omar Khan also decided to re-sign veteran cornerback Asante Samuel Jr., who started three games for Pittsburgh after being signed to the practice squad late in the season.
While these additions, along with future Hall of Fame defensive back Jalen Ramsey coming into his own and veteran cornerback Joey Porter Jr. taking a step towards superstardom last season, could greatly help the defensive back room, one more talented, young player could be a welcome addition. That is where Johnson could come in as a potential first or second-round pick after recording four interceptions and eight pass deflections for the Aztecs in his last season there.
The Steelers Are Close to Being Ready to Win Right Now
Mike McCarthy
GettyMike McCarthy was hired as the head coach of the Steelers in January.
If the Steelers were prepared to go all in on a long rebuild, they likely wouldn’t have hired a 62-year-old head coach. Furthermore, this Steelers roster is filled with experienced pros all over the board. Look no further than All-Pro defenders Cam Heyward, T.J. Watt, and Ramsey. Veteran linebacker Patrick Queen and Porter Jr. are a pair of established veterans, as well.
On offense, Pro Bowl wide receiver DK Metcalf, along with the recently acquired Michael Pittman Jr., are two big-bodied pass-catchers who have a track record of success in the league, too. But at the end of the day, the ceiling of this team can only be determined if or when future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers decides to come back for his 22nd career season and second in Pittsburgh. His leadership and quality play helped the Steelers win the AFC North for the first time in five years.
After winning double-digit games once again, the Steelers are closer to title contention than most may think.