The Pittsburgh Steelers' defensive backfield looks drastically different with the additions of Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay, and Juan Thornhill. Steelers fans got their first taste of the unit in full in the third and final preseason game, and the results, overall, were less than favorable.
The Carolina Panthers rested most of their starters for the contest, but still managed to get into field goal range on their opening possession. Only 12 yards of their 8-play, 52-yard drive came through the air, but tackling in space was a glaring issue for the defense, including members of the secondary.
Luckily, Jalen Ramsey wasn’t a part of the group’s missteps... for the most part. The three-time All-Pro selection made an aggressive first impression in his first action in a Steelers uniform.
Jalen Ramsey’s physical presence sets the tone early for the Pittsburgh Steelers' defense
Ramsey only played those eight snaps, but he was involved in most. He made his first impact on the game by wrapping up Panthers running back Trevor Etienne for what would have been a three-yard loss. Rmasey was flagged for unnecessary roughness on the play, though, as he slung Etienne to the ground after the whistles blew.
Nonetheless, Ramsey finished with three tackles in the stat sheet. Ramsey has long been known for his physicality as a defensive back. He has averaged 67 tackles per season throughout his nine-year career. Now playing all over the defensive backfield for Pittsburgh at cornerback, slot nickel, and safety, he’ll have the chance to dial in on his physical playstyle.
While fans and coaches alike would like to see him finish plays without laundry on the field, the extra dose of physicality is certainly welcome on the Pittsburgh defense. Pittsburgh’s bend-but-don’t-break mentality on the defensive side of the ball usually relies on splash plays and turnovers to bring the energy, and while Ramsey is sure to play his part in that effort, his leadership shines by example with his aggression against ball carriers.
READ MORE: 3 Steelers desperate to save roster spots against Panthers
Still, it’s unfortunate that his effort didn’t immediately translate against the Panthers on that first series. While the Steelers were able to hold Carolina to a field goal, the missed tackles were a major concern early in the contest. Ramsey had to play cleanup in a few of those situations, which speaks to his effort level, even in a preseason game.
Fans and analysts will have plenty to critique on that first drive, but Ramsey’s impact, even with a noticeable infraction, can’t go unnoticed. The more No. 5 is involved in the play outcome in a positive light for Pittsburgh’s defense, the better fans feel about his addition by Minkah Fitzpatrick’s subtraction.