For all the bad surprises the Pittsburgh Steelers have gotten this season, the play of the defense has been a huge positive. Despite the losses of a franchise quarterback, star running back and wide receiver, then their replacements, this team is in the playoffs in large part because the defense is playing elite football.
What do we attribute this change to? Here at the big four reasons.
The Minkah effect
Ever since the Steelers traded their 2020 first-round pick to the Miami Dolphins for safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, this defense has been on the rise. The deep plays that have plagued this group for years are a thing of the past and Fitzpatrick’s ability to generate turnovers has become infectious.
Those outside linebackers
Wow, the emergence of Bud Dupree has not only been great for him but you can see how it has freed up T.J. Watt on the other side. They are the best tandem in the league with a combined 22 sacks. Their ability to consistently beat their man gives the Steelers so much more flexibility in terms of coverage behind them.
Surprising Steven Nelson
When the Steelers signed Nelson as a free agent, many Chiefs fans were glad to be rid of him. But all Nelson has done since coming to Pittsburgh is solidify the cornerback depth chart and pair up with Joe Haden as one of the best starting combos in the AFC. After missing on Artie Burns in the draft, Nelson has been a welcome addition.
No more Joey Porter
One of the smartest things the Steelers did was not bring former outside linebackers coach Joey Porter back. Despite being a great former Steeler he did nothing to further the advancement of the players on the roster and it showed. The best thing that could happen to Dupree and Watt was not having Porter be their coach.
