Pittsburgh Steelers secondary faces questions before season opener against Atlanta Falcons

The Pittsburgh Steelers open the 2026 NFL season this Sunday at home against the Atlanta Falcons. Focus centers on a reconstructed secondary unit as the team attempts to improve upon its 2025 defensive ranking. Cornerback Joey Porter Jr. enters the game with uncertainty regarding his health and contract status, having missed most of the preseason with a back injury. Safety DeShon Elliott is unavailable for the opener, as he begins the season on injured reserve. Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham is expected to implement a diverse scheme featuring various coverage concepts and blitz packages. The performance of this group against Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa will serve as the initial test of the new defensive structure.

• 12:00 PMYahoo Sports — Steelers’ secondary concerns and other storylines to follow in Week 1 vs. Falcons