Steelers' safety plans may limit DeShon Elliott's impact on defense
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 2:21 PM
Last updated Aug 20, 2026
The Pittsburgh Steelers are under scrutiny for their safety strategy as they prepare for the upcoming season. A lack of a dedicated deep safety could force DeShon Elliott into deep coverage roles, compromising his skills as a run-stopper and blitzer. Discussions among analysts highlight concerns that shifting Elliott from his strong suit might expose the defense to opponent exploitation. The Steelers' coaching staff will need to address these potential weaknesses as they finalize their defensive schemes.
- •Steelers emphasize positional flexibility in the secondary.
- •DeShon Elliott known for disruptive box-defending skills.
- •Concerns raised over shifting Elliott to deep coverage.
- •Analysts warn of potential defensive vulnerabilities.
- •No plans for acquiring a dedicated deep safety reported.
- 2:21 PMYahoo Sports — Steelers risk neutralizing DeShon Elliott with safety move
"Asking safety DeShon Elliott to drop into deep coverage could undermine the box-defending traits that make him valuable to the Steelers defense.
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