Cornerback: Size and length, but slot coverage is a concern
Patrick Peterson: With loads of NFL experience, Peterson should be an asset for the Steelers, assuming he doesn't take a massive step back in his old age. The former All-Pro cornerback is coming off a 5-interception season with the Vikings and could see some significant work from the slot for the first time in his career.
Joey Porter Jr.: The Steelers weren't willing to part with the 32nd overall pick, as Porter was just too enticing. The long, physical rookie cornerback could play a big role on nickel and dime defensive packages from day one. Whether or not he can improve his ball skills remains the biggest question mark.
Levi Wallace: Wallace is the definition of 'solid but unspectacular.' The veteran CB has struggled to stick with receivers downfield in the past, but he made up for his shortcomings in 2022 with 4 interceptions. He should carve out another sizable role on defense in 2023.
Cory Trice Jr.: Trice's draft status would suggest that he's hardly a lock to make the 53-man roster. However, the Steelers like what they see in the rookie cornerback. His size, length, and traits could be an asset, and his role could be bigger than expected if he impresses during training camp and the preseason.
James Pierre: The Steelers are suddenly loaded with boundary cornerbacks, and James Pierre will once again need to prove his worth on special teams if he wants to hold onto his job. Pierre isn't expected to have a role on defense with all of Pittsburgh's offseason acquisitions at the CB position.
Duke Dawson: Dawson is a former second-round pick of the New England Patriots in 2018 who didn't pan out. His only NFL action came on the Denver Broncos in 2019 and 2020, but he hasn't suited up since then. Dawson offers versatility in the secondary but will have a hard time sticking with younger, more talented defensive backs on the roster.
Chandon Sullivan: Sullivan doesn't offer much more than Arthur Maulet did for the Steelers. Despite significant usage covering the slot, the results weren't very good. We can't expect him to suddenly turn things around in year six either. He could be a reserve CB thanks to his experience in nickel.
Madre Harper: The Southern Illinois product has an intriguing blend of height and athletic traits, but so does the pair of rookies ahead of him on the roster. Pittsburgh may not be able to devote another roster spot to a developmental cornerback. Harper needs to be a special teams ace to warrant consideration this fall.
Luq Barcoo: The former San Diego State cornerback has a long, slender frame for the cornerback position, and he has bounced around since entering the league. With the sudden depth at cornerback, Barcoo will be hoping to make a splash and prove why he's worthy of landing on the practice squad this year.
Chris Wilcox: Wilcox is another one of those defensive backs who fits the mold of what the Pittsburgh Steelers have been looking for recently. The former BYU cornerback is long and rangy with 4.39 speed. Regardless of the traits, making the roster is going to be a tall task.