Steelers Sign Big Name Safety After DeShon Elliott Injury

The Pittsburgh Steelers walked out of MetLife Stadium with a 34-32 win over the New York Jets in Week 1. During the game, Steelers safety DeShon Elliott left with a left knee injury late in the first half. The Steelers' brass know just how important a healthy Elliott is to the defense and safety room. 

While Steelers fans wait for an update on how much time Elliott will miss, the Steelers aren't wasting any time finding a replacement. The Steelers are reportedly signing former New England Patriots safety Jabrill Peppers. Pittsburgh cannot afford to let its secondary lose stability this early in the season, especially with a brutal schedule ahead and high expectations for the defense to carry the team once again. Though, Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers offense carried the team for most of the Week 1 contest against the Jets.

The Patriots released eight-year veteran Peppers just a couple of weeks ago, leaving him available on the market. Peppers has been a consistent and versatile player throughout his career, capable of providing both physical run support and solid coverage skills. 

His ability to step into a starting role or provide valuable depth makes him an intriguing signing for a Pittsburgh team that prides itself on defensive toughness and veteran leadership. Peppers sounded off on his social media following his release from the Patriots. 

New Patriots Head Coach Mike Vrabel responded to the rumors from Peppers that the team released him because he did not fit their scheme. Vrabel denied that was the reason, but it is clear Peppers felt otherwise. Either way, with Peppers available, and the Steelers needing help at the position, a partnership has commenced.

The Patriots are still responsible for paying Peppers $4.32 million guaranteed on his 2025 contract, which could actually work in Pittsburgh’s favor. That financial cushion means the Steelers may have been able to land him at a discounted price and add a proven veteran at great value.

There was a clear path here for the Steelers front office to bring Peppers into the fold. With the way the defense looked against the Jets, reinforcements may were necessary, especially if Elliott is forced to miss several games with his knee injury. Depth at safety is critical for sustaining this defense over a long season, and Peppers could end up being the ideal solution.

Steelers Could Truly Get Instant Impact From Veteran Jabrill Peppers

Adding Peppers fits the typical approach the Steelers’ use in finding proven veterans who can immediately contribute without much adjustment. Pittsburgh has relied on this strategy before to patch up key positions when injuries arise, and the familiarity Peppers has with playing multiple roles in the secondary makes him a seamless fit. 

Like he said on his social media account, Peppers has played in several different systems. He is confident he could fit into any defensive scheme or concept. Peppers was also graded as the seventh-best strong safety for the 2024 season by Pro Football Focus.

This signing is likely an indication that Elliott is going to be lost for a longer period of time. His signing will help stabilize the backend of the defense and give Mike Tomlin and Teryl Austin the flexibility they need to keep the unit strong. The Steelers know their defense will define how far they go in 2025, and ensuring they have the right depth at safety could prove to be a very critical move.

Would you want to see the Steelers make the move to bring in Jabrill Peppers? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me.

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