5 safeties Steelers can sign to replace Edmunds if he leaves

Steelers may sign Peppers

Another former Browns safety (albeit he has been with the Giants since he got dealt in the Odell Beckham trade), Jabrill Peppers was hot on the Steelers radar in the 2017 draft. Luckily for the team, the Browns took him five spots ahead of Pittsburgh, who turned around to draft T.J. Watt with their selection. That said, Peppers has become a viable starter in the secondary.

What made Peppers so unique as a player was his athleticism. He was a returner, safety, cornerback, linebacker, and offensive gadget during his three-year stint at Michigan. While he has settled in as a return man and safety in the NFL, that athleticism still flashes. It has allowed him to cover up some of his other flaws, as a bad read can be covered up by Peppers still getting to the ball-carrier because of his speed.

Peppers was injured for most of the 2021 season, meaning he may be willing to join the Steelers on a shorter deal for less money in order to try and rebuild his stock. This would work well for the team, as Peppers would instantly slot into the strong safety role and be effective there. While there are some better names on the market, Peppers would be a low-risk signing for the team.