Which round should Steelers target each defensive position?

Safety

Sixth Round

This is one of the toughest positions to figure out for the Steelers this season. While both of the starters are set to return, the depth behind them is unproven, and long-term, this position could lose a starter in Terrell Edmunds if he isn’t brought back. That said, there are enough bodies to warrant drafting this position later. This isn’t like edge rusher where there is no one behind the starters.

Frankly, there is one name that sticks out as a late-round option with upside. Paris Ford out of Pittsburgh would make a lot of sense in the sixth. His tape was solid in college, as he is a smart and instinctual playmaker, but he tested horribly as an athlete. Despite those issues, he has enough talent to make an impact on special teams at worst. In the long term, he could become a starter if he can overcome his athletic deficiencies.

As well, a name like Caden Sterns or JaCoby Stevens could also fit the bill here. Both of these options have overall worse tape but could develop into a niche player. There is a real chance the Steelers don’t even take a safety. If they do target the position though, odds are it will be towards the back half of the draft as opposed to earlier on. The focus should be on Ford, but other names could still aid the team.

The Steelers defense was the strong point of the team last season, but the exodus of players this offseason has left the team thin here. Luckily, this draft has a lot of options in various different rounds to fill their needs. From the first round to the last, this draft has plenty of options to help rebuild this defense.