5 safeties Steelers can replace Terrell Edmunds with in 2022

Steelers could start Brisker

Going back to the rookie class, the conscious top safety is Kyle Hamilton. The Notre Dame talent would be a perfect fit for the Steelers, but his odds of being available outside of the top ten is almost non-existent. Behind him is Jaquan Brisker, a Penn State product who has been productive over the past few seasons. While not a big-play threat, Brisker is a steady presence in any secondary.

He has free and strong safety versatility but given his strength as a run defender and lack of ball skills, a permanent move to strong safety with some play in the slot makes the most sense. There, he can excel as a man-coverage option against tight ends while also filling run gaps. He isn’t a premier athlete, but he is fast enough to hand with NFL players. It wouldn’t be a flashy pick, but it would be a safe choice for a team that will need a new starter.

While Brisker will more than likely be available when the Steelers pick in the draft, it will come down to what other holes the team will want to be filled. While not having a good strong safety is an issue, so are the holes along both lines, quarterback, and off-ball linebacker. While he may be a good player, the team may opt to go elsewhere with their top pick. With almost no chance of making it to the second round, Brisker will have to prove that he is more valuable than filling some of the more desperate needs.