Pittsburgh Steelers safety Jaquan Brisker expressed optimism about the team's defense reaching elite status next season. He highlighted talent and depth across the unit under new coordinator Patrick Graham. The comments came amid roster changes following a disappointing 2025 campaign.
Brisker stated the group has the potential to rank among the league's best. "I feel like we have the potential to be the best, to be top five, top three, to get back to what Pittsburgh is used to with their defense being on top," he said. He added that the mindset should center on a top-five finish, citing talent at every position and a strong coaching staff.
The Steelers invested heavily in the defense this offseason. Additions include Brisker alongside veterans Jalen Ramsey and DeShon Elliott in the secondary, plus three highly paid edge rushers. Graham brings experience tailoring schemes to personnel rather than rigid systems.
Last year similar predictions fell short. Injuries and inconsistency limited results despite high expectations for the secondary and pass rush. Brisker believes the current depth and coaching changes position the unit for improvement in 2026.
