Steelers defensive back dynamic under fire as Jalen Ramsey issues bold statement
Pittsburgh Steelers' Defense Shines with Jalen Ramsey in the Spotlight
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, the Pittsburgh Steelers' defensive backfield is poised to make a significant impact. With one of the league's most experienced and confident groups, the Steelers are ready to assert their dominance on the field.
At the helm of the revamped secondary is Jalen Ramsey, the clear No. 1 cornerback according to head coach Mike Tomlin and Ramsey himself. The acquisition of Ramsey, who was traded from the Miami Dolphins, has bolstered the Steelers' defense significantly.
Jonnu Smith was also brought in alongside Ramsey in the trade, but it is Ramsey who takes center stage. Tomlin has made it clear that Ramsey will be the one "popping it off" for the Steelers' defense, with the six-time Pro Bowler Darius Slay Jr. supporting his position.
Slay, who joined Pittsburgh on a one-year deal after helping the Philadelphia Eagles win Super Bowl LIX last season, is a key cornerback in the Steelers' secondary alongside Ramsey. Together, they form a formidable duo that is already being heralded as one of the AFC's most physical units.
The Steelers opened their preseason with a 31-25 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, and with Ramsey and Slay leading the defense, expectations are high for the rest of the season.
Ramsey, who recorded 60 tackles, one sack, and two interceptions in the 2024 season with the Dolphins, is expected to consistently shadow the opposing team's top wide receiver. While he may occasionally play safety or slot corner, his primary role is as the CB1.
Joe Porter Jr., who wants to play more, understands that he will do so after Ramsey. The roles in the Pittsburgh Steelers' defensive backfield have been firmly established from day one, with Ramsey at the forefront.
Darius Slay and Jalen Ramsey have a good relationship, and Slay is aware of Ramsey's role in the Steelers' defense. Slay signed a one-year, $10 million contract with the Steelers in March, and he supports Ramsey's position in the Steelers' defense.
The Steelers will continue their preseason schedule Saturday, hosting the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With Ramsey leading the defense, the Steelers are determined to make a strong impression and set the tone for the season ahead.
In the leadup to the 2025 NFL season, Jalen Ramsey, the newly acquired star cornerback from the Miami Dolphins, will be drafting strategies for the Pittsburgh Steelers' defense, leveraging his six-time Pro Bowl experience toshadow the opposing team's top wide receiver. Meanwhile, Darius Slay, another key player in the Steelers' defense, plays the role of supportive cornerback as they prepare to play American-football in the NFL, aiming to win games with their physical, AFC-rivaling secondary unit.
