Let's call a spade a spade: the Pittsburgh Steelers' defense has looked old and slow in 2025, because that's exactly what it is.
Pittsburgh's stop unit has looked its age, specifically in coverage. Their inability to stay in front of opponents will only be further exacerbated by starting safety DeShon Elliott's hyperextended knee.
Elliott has already been ruled out for Pittsburgh's upcoming clash with the Indianapolis Colts by the team's head coach, Mike Tomlin. He was reportedly "week-to-week" despite reported fears of a potential season-ending injury, which is a silver lining. Nevertheless, the veteran defensive back just landed on injured reserve, leaving a hole in the Steelers' secondary.
The Steelers signed Jabril Peppers in response to Elliott missing time with a different knee issue earlier this season. So, the next man up is ostensibly on the roster. However, Pittsburgh decided to bring in additional help, courtesy of another New England Patriots misfit: Kyle Dugger.
Dugger gets a fresh start after the Steelers and Patriots agreed to a Day 3 draft pick swap. He fell out of favor in Foxborough as a holdover from the previous regime spearheaded by NFL legend Bill Belichick. Be that as it may, his arrival hardly fixes Pittsburgh's ongoing problems.
Patriots' Kyle Dugger is a clear Steelers trade target that doesn't solve much in Pittsburgh
A gifted athlete with a unique blend of size and speed, Dugger is a versatile chess piece that can wear multiple hats. He has the physical tools to thrive in the box or from the slot. Elliott notably offers a similar skill set and has served that's been amplified in a malleable role for the Steelers this year.
Perhaps the Steelers see Dugger's overlapping traits with the player he's filling in for as grounds to take a flier on him. The 2020 No. 37 overall selection can probably help as a run stopper. Yet, his below-average 58.8 Pro Football Focus tackling grade ($) doesn't pair well with a Pittsburgh squad with the second-most missed tackles through Week 8.
While Dugger helps in one facet of the game, his inability to wrap up ball carriers could create a snowball effect for the Steelers. Only four clubs are allowing more yards after the catch, a problem that he heightens, especially compared to what Elliott provided in this department.