A defensive analyst has identified the safety position as his primary worry for the Pittsburgh Steelers heading into the upcoming season despite recent roster additions.
Cody Alexander of Match Quarters shared his thoughts during an appearance on the Yinziders podcast. He pointed to the deployment of safeties DeShon Elliott and Jaquan Brisker as a potential issue for the team's defensive scheme.
Elliott is returning from a season-ending injury while Brisker joined as an unrestricted free agent. Alexander noted both players are in or near their prime and could form the team's strongest safety pairing since Minkah Fitzpatrick's peak years.
The analyst expressed concern that the pair may be too similar in style. He suggested the Steelers plan to use a two-high shell and that Elliott might play deeper while Brisker operates closer to the box.
Alexander highlighted the mental demands this setup would place on both players when adjusting to motion and formations. He also noted Jalen Ramsey's versatility could provide additional options in base packages.