The so-called “boring” part of the NFL offseason has been shaken up, as the Pittsburgh Steelers traded for two key names coming out of Miami. The trade consists of safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a 2027 5th-round pick for cornerback Jalen Ramsey, tight end Jonnu Smith, and a 2027 7th-round pick. A blockbuster trade by many accounts, which also shows more signs of the Pittsburgh Steelers gearing up to go all in this upcoming season.
The main headline name of the two players coming from Miami is 30-year-old Jalen Ramsey. He joins a position group that includes Joey Porter Jr. and Darius Slay. When looking at this position, it is arguably one of the best cornerback trios in the NFL. Age and discipline will play a vital role in this tandem. Porter has notably been called for many holding calls coming off the previous season, with seven. Two of which came in the Wildcard game against Baltimore. For Slay and Ramsey, age could play a factor in their play.
It’s by no mistake that both these players were once all-pro talents, but it’s hard to keep that production up as years go by. Regardless, both players are key additions to the defense. Focusing more on Ramsey, he plays more of an outside cornerback position and has the build to play on the perimeter. He shows versatility as well, as he has experience playing in the slot and at safety. This addition of a versatile, all-pro player will help the secondary drastically.
Yes, another tight end for the Pittsburgh Steelers. With the acquisition of Smith, the Steelers have a total of six tight ends. With the overhaul of the position aside, this addition isn’t the worst. There is familiarity between Smith and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith dating back to Smith’s rookie season. He will add a lot to the offense, as he already has a good sense of the playbook and is coming off a great year.
This is the confusing part for a couple of reasons. Losing Fitzpatrick does not mean the Steelers’ secondary is completely ruined; it just adds questions. After one of the worst seasons with the team, some fans are fine with seeing Fitzpatrick go, but giving away the younger of the two defensive backs can pose some confusion.
The large concern that comes from losing Fitzpatrick is that the team lost a starting safety for a cornerback. Speculation is already going around about where Ramsey will fit in with the Steelers’ defense. Could the now-empty spot in free safety be filled by the acquisition of Ramsey? All in all, losing Fitzpatrick isn’t entirely a big deal for the team.
Prepare for an all-out push for the seventh Lombardi from the Pittsburgh Steelers. From adding new elite faces to the offense to buffing up the defense, there is no question this team is preparing for a run. The urgency to add to the team should keep fans optimistic for this upcoming season.
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