Pittsburgh Steelers: 3 defensive factors that have changed this defense

The Pittsburgh Steelers have become a better defensive team this year and you have to look no further than last Sunday’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs for proof of that.

Taking TJ Watt with the First Pick

The Steelers have upgraded their pass rush at a key position on their defense, outside linebacker. Watt showed at Wisconsin the ability to stop the run and drop into coverage. He has also flashed a bit as a pass rusher and that has made a big difference in pressure. Watt essentially replaced failed first-round pick, Jarvis Jones. Some have talked about TJ Watt being the defensive rookie of the year in his short time with the Steelers. So far he looks like a steal from towards the end of the first round.

Picking Up Joe Haden

The Steelers have struggled in the pass defense department and it is likely due to personnel issues. The Steeler have always relied on zone corners who were good against the run. In today’s NFL, this skillset does not cut it. The Steelers needed man cover corners. The Steelers had a gap at the corner position with Ross Cockrell struggling and Coty Sensabaugh having to fill in at the corner position opposite Artie Burns. The Steelers made a surprise move at the beginning of the season and signed Joe Haden. Haden was struggling with injury issues, but the Steelers took a chance on him. It looks so far like that move has paid off.

Development of Young members of the secondary

The Steelers have improved on defense as well because of the development of young members of the secondary like Sean Davis and Artie Burns. Artie Burns has developed into a number 1 corner for the Steelers after having some rookie struggles. Sean Davis has another year of experience under his belt and that has helped at the safety position. Mike Hilton has also emerged as their starting slot corner and has performed very well.

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He has added a dimension of the blitz and run defense to his game as well. Hilton was a practice squad member towards the end of last year but has a emerged from a training camp darling to a preseason standout to the Steelers new slot corner.