Surprising Steelers Defender Named "Most Important Guy" For Pittsburgh In 2025

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been very busy up to this point in the offseason. As training programs continue throughout the summer, fans and pundits alike get to see the makeup of the new team. While newly acquired additions have sparked most of the media's attention, a lot of eyes continue to be on some returning players this year as well.

One of those players is Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. Porter Jr. was drafted by the Steelers early in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft. A lot of people are wanting to see him take a big leap this year, and one of those people is Steelers insider Mark Kaboly. Kaboly recently made an appearance on 93.7 The Fan, where he talked all things Steelers. When speaking about the defense, Porter Jr. was brought up as a very important piece of the puzzle heading into the season. 

"Porter has to take that huge jump," Kaboly said. "On defense, he's probably the most important guy right now. He needs to take that jump, even over Derrick Harmon."

Derrick Harmon was selected by the Steelers in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. As a defensive tackle, he brings youthfulness and fresh talent to strengthen the front line. With the current defensive line aging, many fans are enthusiastic about the pick. It’s a perfect time for Harmon to learn under veteran Cam Heyward, while positioning him as a potential successor in the near future.

Being a first-round draft pick as a rookie comes with a lot of pressure. All eyes are on you, hoping you live up to the expectations the Steelers had when they chose you. At the same time, you're navigating a lot of changes and constant learning. It's a period of major change and growth.

However, Kaboly's comment puts the pressure on Porter Jr., and after a couple of up and down seasons, all eyes will be on how he improves. To help him out, Porter Jr. now has Darius Slay, a fellow cornerback the Steelers signed earlier this offseason from the 2024 Super Bowl Champions, the Philadelphia Eagles. Slay has said multiple times that he looks forward to being his mentor, and helping him out in any way he can.

This leadership from Slay is going to play a really big role as the Steelers prepare to enter the upcoming season. The Steelers find themselves actually in a great situation, with a well-balanced roster that includes a mix of seasoned veterans and promising, young talent. This combination not only increases their chances to perform at a high level, but it also lays a strong groundwork for success in many years to come. By blending the two, the Steelers can stay competitive in a "rebuilding" period. 

Steelers' Future Is Bright

The Steelers’ focus on building for the future extends beyond the players already on their current roster. Recently, the Steelers have been accumulating draft capital through a series of trades. In addition to this capital, the Steelers are also projected to receive multiple compensatory picks as a result of free agency, further strengthening their ability to add young talent and deepen their roster in the coming years.

To make things even more interesting, the 2026 NFL Draft takes place in Pittsburgh, right in the Steelers' backyard. This could entice them to make a bigger move, as they have the accumulated draft capital to do so. The Steelers are already reportedly high on the quarterback class for next year, and new players can emerge as the college season begins. 

This also must add some pressure to these younger players fighting for a spot. The offseason programs have given many players opportunities, and with so many changes to the roster, these players may be able to find their perfect fit. 

Do you think Porter Jr. is the most important defender entering the season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments down below!

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