Steelers Defense 2025 Preview: Big Names, Big Contracts, But Can They Deliver?
If you know anything about the Pittsburgh Steelers, you know defense is their bread and butter — or at least it’s supposed to be. Over the years, the Steelers haven’t hesitated to drop serious cash on defensive players. The problem? Those big-money moves don’t always translate to big-time results on the field. Heading into the 2025 season, it feels like déjà vu all over again. The Steelers have loaded up with star power and hefty contracts, but the question looming over everyone is whether this squad can finally break through under defensive coordinator Teryl Austin’s leadership. Honestly, there’s some skepticism that things will change much unless something shifts in the coaching approach.
With training camp just days away, now’s the perfect time to break down each position group on the Steelers’ defense and see what to expect.
Defensive Line: A New Look, But Still Searching for Consistency
The Steelers knew they had to fix the defensive line after last year’s disappointing showing. So, the front office went to work. Out went Larry Ogunjobi and Montravius Adams, two veterans who just didn’t deliver like hoped. In their place? Rookie Derrick Harmon and Yahya Black are stepping up with fresh energy and a chip on their shoulder.
But as always, the anchor remains Cameron Heyward — the ageless wonder. Heyward will once again lead the defensive front, bringing his veteran savvy and toughness to a group that desperately needs a spark. Speaking of sparks, all eyes will be on nose tackle Keenau Benton, a player who showed flashes last season but needs to take a step forward to truly anchor this defense.
Beyond the starters, the Steelers have a crowded battle for depth. Logan Lee, Derek Lowry, DeMarvin Leal, and Isaiahh Loudermilk return, but none exactly scream “lock-in.” Adding to the mix are free agent signings Daniel Ekuale, Esezi Otomeow, and Dominique Davis, all fighting for a spot on the 53-man roster. It’s a long shot, but one or two could surprise.
Outside Linebacker: The Best Unit—Now It’s Time to Prove It
If there’s one bright spot on this defense, it’s the outside linebacker group. This is the Steelers’ strongest defensive unit by a mile. Led by the reigning face of Pittsburgh defense, T.J. Watt, alongside Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, and Jake Sawyer, this four-man rotation ranks among the best in the entire NFL.
After signing a massive new contract, Watt is under pressure—and rightfully so—to lead the charge in getting after the quarterback. And it’s not just him; this entire group has the talent to terrorize opposing QBs.
The stats say a lot: the Steelers only managed 40 sacks last season, marking the third straight year they failed to crack 50. That’s a far cry from their dominant pass rush from years past. But with this group healthy and hungry, 2025 could be the year they break out.
Inside Linebacker: Depth and Talent Galore
If outside linebacker is the best unit, inside linebacker comes in at a close second. Pittsburgh added some serious depth in free agency by bringing in Malik Harrison, and the return of Cole Holcomb from injury gives them two strong, starter-quality reserves.
Still, the starting duo is locked down. Patrick Queen, who arrived last year from the Ravens, quietly took over and flourished once he got comfortable in the system. Alongside him, the Steelers have a rising star in Payton Wilson, a second-year linebacker who only played about 45% of defensive snaps as a rookie but racked up 78 tackles—fourth on the team. Wilson’s development will be one of the more exciting storylines this offseason.
Cornerback: A Major Overhaul
The cornerback group got a serious makeover this offseason. Donte Jackson’s departure to the Los Angeles Chargers left a big hole, which the Steelers quickly filled by signing veteran Darius Slay. Slay was expected to start outside alongside promising young corner Joey Porter Jr.
Then, in a surprise move that rocked the NFL, Pittsburgh pulled off a blockbuster trade to land All-Pro Jalen Ramsey. Suddenly, the Steelers have one of the most talented cornerback trios in the league with Ramsey, Slay, and Porter all on the field. Along with Cory Trice Jr. and James Pierre, the outside cornerback position is deep—but both Trice and Pierre are on the roster bubble entering camp.
Slot cornerback features its own battle royale, with Beanie Bishop, Brandin Echols, and rookie Donte Kent fighting for one spot. It’s a tight race, and one of them won’t make the final cut.
Safety: The Biggest Hit to the Defense
Safety is where the Steelers took the hardest hit this offseason. The trade that brought in cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith came at a steep cost: All-Pro safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick, while perhaps not quite the player he was a couple of seasons ago, was still easily Pittsburgh’s best safety and a core defensive leader. Replacing him won’t be easy.
The good news? One safety spot is firmly locked down by big hitter DeShon Elliott. Elliott had a solid 2024 and is expected to take on an even bigger role this year.
As for Fitzpatrick’s spot, it’s wide open. The Steelers brought in Juan Thornhill during free agency, who has the experience and skill set to step in. However, don’t count out veterans like Quindell Johnson or rookie Sebastian Castro, who will both be pushing Thornhill hard in training camp.
The Austin Factor: Coaching Concerns Loom Large
No discussion about the Steelers’ defense would be complete without mentioning Teryl Austin, the defensive coordinator. While he’s got plenty of NFL experience, there’s a growing chorus of concern that Austin hasn’t been able to maximize the talent on this roster. Big names and big contracts mean little if the scheme and play-calling don’t click.
Unless there’s a shakeup in the coaching staff or a significant adjustment in approach, many fans and analysts worry this defensive group will continue to underperform, despite the star power.
Final Thoughts: A Defense Full of Potential… But Will It Show?
Looking at the Steelers’ defense heading into the 2025 season, the big takeaway is this: There’s undeniable talent and plenty of reasons for optimism, especially on the linebacker corps and cornerbacks. But talent alone isn’t enough if the coaching and scheme don’t align.
The defensive line still feels like a work in progress. The loss of veteran leadership and the battle for depth make it a question mark. Meanwhile, safety has been hit hard by the Fitzpatrick trade, and the new pieces will need to prove themselves quickly.
On the bright side, the outside linebacker group looks ready to finally break through and deliver the kind of pressure that Pittsburgh defenses of old were known for.
The Steelers have their work cut out for them, but if everything clicks, 2025 could be a turning point for a defense that has underwhelmed in recent years. Training camp will be critical—watch for the battles, the breakout players, and whether Teryl Austin’s unit can finally live up to the hype.
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