3 ways the Steelers defense will continue to improve
By Tommy Jaggi
Unexpected improvements from young players
Another reason why the Steelers offense could continue to improve is because we have seen some young defenders make some big strides this season – many of which were unexpected.
Cameron Sutton was an afterthought of the 2017 draft class. For the first two years of his career, his play was overshadowed by draftmates T.J. Watt, JuJu Smith-Schuster, and James Conner. However, Sutton has really elevated his play this sesaon.
The former 3rd round draft choice has a 79.1 overall grade on the season, via Pro Football Focus. He comes into the game in certain defensive packages, but has an interception and 5 pass defenses in just 19 throws his direction this season. Through 9 games, Sutton has allowed just a 49.4 passer rating when targeted.
Sutton isn’t the only young player on the rise. Although this is Steven Nelson’s first year with the Steelers, he is allowing just a 76.3 passer rating, and he hasn’t allowed a touchdown through nine games (he allowed 5 last season).
Javon Hargrave has also done a fine job filling in for Stephon Tuitt. Hargrave recorded 7 tackles, 1.0 sack, 1 tackle for a loss 1 quarterback hit and a forced fumble against the Rams.