Jalen Ramsey is beginning Pittsburgh Steelers training camp on the Physically Unable to Perform list after a spring knee injury. The absence raises questions for the team's new defensive scheme.
Mike DeFabo noted that losing Ramsey removes the starting nickel corner, a safety option, and a corner option. This limits work on disguising plays under coordinator Patrick Graham during installation of the new defense.
The Steelers are installing their newest defensive system in decades under head coach Mike McCarthy. Ramsey's presence would have helped that process, though no return timetable has been given.
DeFabo pointed to a potential benefit. Players including Brandin Echols, D’Shawn Jamison, Sebastian Castro, and Robert Spears-Jennings can now receive additional evaluation and reps behind Ramsey.
