Former NFL general manager Doug Whaley has highlighted Jalen Ramsey's self-awareness as he transitions into a more versatile defensive role with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Ramsey, no longer an elite outside cornerback, has adapted to play multiple positions. Whaley noted on 93.7 The Fan that Ramsey recognizes his changed abilities while remaining a strong contributor.
"The thing I like about Ramsey is his self-awareness to say, 'Okay, I'm not the corner that I came into this league [as], but I'm a hell of a football player, and if you use me the right way, I'm open to being that Swiss Army Knife,'" Whaley said.
The Steelers added Jamel Dean to join Joey Porter Jr. at outside cornerback. This allows Ramsey to focus primarily on the slot and safety duties in the base defense for the upcoming season.
Last year Ramsey shifted to safety after DeShon Elliott's injury in Week 9 and continued moving between positions. The team now plans a narrower role for him centered on versatility in the slot.