Steelers need to sign Tony Jefferson to complete the defense

While the Steelers have found some early success this season, a tough schedule could make adding a better strong safety a strong move

While the Steelers had some extended time off this past week, they appear to be full steam ahead for the Eagles matchup this week. While the Steelers have found some early season success, they still have some major question marks on their roster. Arguably the most questionable position on the team right now is safety, as both of the safeties on the roster have struggled through the first three weeks.

Tony Jefferson, the former Cardinal and Raven, has found himself on the free-agent market for most of the offseason. While he suffered through an injury-riddled 2019, he has constantly proven to be a steady presence in any secondary. Right now, he would be the perfect addition to an already talented Steelers defense.

While he has been the worse of the two starters, Terrell Edmunds has made some improvements in his third season as a starter. He has been really stout against the run this year and is only credited for missing one tackle so far. As well, he had a critical sack against the Broncos in week two, showcasing his awareness as a physical tackler.

The problem with him is still his coverage. He has given up a QB rating of 94.8 so far this season, and while that is better than the 131.6 rating he gave up last year, it is far from ideal. At this point in his career, he may be at his ceiling in terms of coverage ability. Because of this, Edmunds has become the clearest weak link on the defense and is prone to be picked on by opposing offenses.

Insert Jefferson, who was a better pass protector in his last fully healthy season with the Ravens as well as grading out as a better overall safety than Edmunds ever has. While Jefferson isn’t an elite player, he fits into a modern NFL defense better than Edmunds. Jefferson would be a better deep safety and provide a more consistent option than Edmunds has as a safety.

This doesn’t mean Jefferson would instantly start for the Steelers either. Edmunds would still have his role and would likely remain a starter in at least base defense. In pass coverage packages, Edmunds would move closer to the line of scrimmage to maximize his physical traits. The idea of Edmunds playing more of a hybrid linebacker isn’t a new topic, as his size and run defense has made him a natural fit for that role.

Edmunds can and should be praised for the improvements he’s made this season in his run defense. He looks like a more secure tackler, but his pass coverage issues are still persistent. A move to a hybrid role could do him wonders and really revive his career. The best option to take over as the traditional safety is Jefferson, as he has shown his talent as an above-average coverage option playing deep in the secondary.

While the Steelers could continue to roll with the defense as is, they are about to hit a stretch where they will play far better passing offenses. If the Steelers wanted to make a quick upgrade, now is the time so the defense can have a week or two to gel. Jefferson makes as much sense as anyone in that role and would be a great addition to this secondary going forward.