Steelers defense performance

The Steelers defense ranked sixth in the NFL, allowing 305.6 yards per game and two touchdowns in three games.

Ramsey's role in defense

Jalen Ramsey made 48 tackles, two sacks, and one forced fumble in eight games despite no interceptions.

Ramsey credits Tomlin

Ramsey said, 'It was Mike T.’s vision for me last year. It just didn’t unfold because of how things worked at different times.'

“It was Mike T.’s vision for me last year. It just didn’t unfold because of how things worked at different times.”

Injuries impacted vision

Injuries prevented Tomlin from executing his vision for Ramsey, who played multiple spots including safety and linebacker.

2025 defense struggles

Pittsburgh’s secondary had issues with injuries to starting safety DeShon Elliott and veterans Juan Thornhill and Darius Slay.

Ramsey's Pro Bowl selection

Ramsey earned a Pro Bowl selection after becoming a full-time safety despite initial vision changes.

New coordinator's plan

Patrick Graham kept Ramsey in a role to maximize his impact across as many games as possible.

“Regardless, we’re gonna keep you where we can weaponize you and activate you and try to get you activated in as many games as we can.”

Tomlin's legacy

Tomlin left the Steelers with talent that helped the defense succeed in 2026 despite recent struggles.