5 defensive coordinator candidates for the Steelers in 2022
By Andrew Falce
Steelers could add Pellegrino
While Butler would be a fine addition to this coaching staff, a real get for the secondary would be a different coach from the AFC East. While the Patriots’ resurgence this year was a bit shocking, the continued dominance of their secondary isn’t. Consistently, the Patriots have always found ways to field a top secondary. No matter who is back there for the team, the Patriots have found ways to stop opposing passing offenses.
The main reason for the success here has been the amazing work that Mike Pellegrino has done with the defensive backs. From giving veterans like Devin McCourty a career resurgence to getting the most out of highly touted players like Kyle Dugger, to developing J.C. Jackson, a former undrafted free agent, into one of the best cornerbacks in the league.
Even better, Pellegrino has seen a consistent change in terms of who’s starting in his secondary. Stephon Gilmore was the best defensive back in the league while with the Patriots, and even after he was traded this year this secondary didn’t miss a beat. Pellegrino would be a huge get for a defense that has failed to develop members in their secondary. He would be a great step forward in bringing back an elite secondary.