Steelers need these defensive stars to have big seasons in 2022

The Pittsburgh Steelers will face an uphill battle this season. While the team develops their starting quarterback, which players can Mike Tomlin depend on to protect the endzone?

A rebuild would not define the current state of Pittsburgh’s franchise. Head Coach Mike Tomlin has yet to have a losing season while leading the black and gold. Consistency in the leadership position has helped fans who support the Steel curtain keep their composure when discussing what lies ahead this year.

While Matt Canada and the offense work out kinks, players on the defensive side must find a way to preserve leads. Here are a few players that will make an impact this season.

3. Steelers Defense Welcomes LB Myles Jack

Searching for an all-purpose linebacker is a harder task than most think. Defensive coordinators rely on their field generals’ instincts to make plays and quick adjustments. Playing without a healthy linebacker has cost Mike Tomlin’s team opportunities to advance in the playoff picture last season. According to ESPN.com, the Steelers finished last in rushing yards allowed and rushing yards allowed per game.

Pittsburgh’s decision to sign Myles Jack will help Teryl Austin adjust in his first year as Defensive Coordinator. His 513 total career tackles helped the Jaguars defense develop as a prominent defense. Jack’s tackle total last season fell eight shy of his career-best.

Filling the gap will come easy for the newest member of the Steel Curtain. Defensive linemen like Stephon Tuitt and Cameron Heyward will cause offensive coordinators to double-team them, leaving an easy path for Pittsburgh’s linebacker. If Jack has a productive season, the Steelers will too.

2. Steelers Defense calls for Mikah Fitzpatrick’s air patrol

Troy Polamalu set the standard for Safeties that followed his legacy. His performances on the field defined the meaning of Pittsburgh football. Polamalu’s retirement forced front office executives to find a replacement.

In 2019, the Steelers made the move to bring in their next playmaker. Trade with the Miami Dolphins sent Minkah Fitzpatrick to Heinz field. Within months, the former Alabama defensive back earned a prominent role. According to ESPN.com, Fitzpatrick’s ball-hawking ability helped him record nine interceptions over two years. His thirteen-career interception will only rise throughout his career.

Run support is also a part of Fitzpatrick’s skill set. When opposing backs line up across from number thirty-nine, they must account for his persistent pursuit. Pittsburgh’s starting safety has made a living making an open-field tackle. His 352 career tackles will help the Steelers crackdown on their opponents’ ground attacks.

3. T.J Watt’s pass rush will stamp Steelers’ Golden Ticket

In 2017, the Pittsburgh front office drafted an edge rusher that would become their franchise player. With the 30th pick in the first round, the Steelers selected T.J Watt from the University of Wisconsin. Analysts around the league knew the production that came attached to the Watt last name. While his brother J.J prepared for another dominant season, T.J was beginning his own NFL journey.

It did not take long for Watt to find his footing within the organization. By the end of his first season, the Steelers knew they had found a gem. His seven-sack total increased with his time in the league. In 2022, Watt tied Hall of Fame rusher Michael Strahan’s regular-season sack record– tripling his rookie year total.

Keeping opposing quarterbacks under duress is how T.J earns a paycheck. Forcing fumbles comes with the territory. According to ESPN.com, Watt has recorded over twenty fumbles in five seasons. These turnovers provide momentum swings in pivotal moments.

Defending the endzone will fall on the shoulders of stars. While Kenny Pickett and Mitchell Trubisky learn the offense, Mike Tomlin must ensure his defense is ready for the task ahead.