The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense gave fans a big reason for concern as the New York Jets' offense had their way for most of the game in Week 1. Jalen Ramsey and the defense did come up big when it mattered most, stopping Justin Fields on their final drive of the contest. However, the highly compensated unit still allowed 394 total yards of offense on Sunday. That is not a showing this talented and well-paid defense is proud of, and they are well aware of the criticism surrounding their performance.
ESPN
Steelers' Jalen Ramsey makes a bone crushing hit on Jets' Garrett Wilson to help win Week 1 against New York.
When you have playmakers all over the defense like TJ Watt, Patrick Queen, Ramsey, Darius Slay, Joey Porter Jr., and many other stars, the compensation usually reflects it. This defense earns too much to perform the way they did against the Jets, at least in the eyes of many fans and analysts.
The noise from fans and analysts has not gone unheard, and the Steelers know they need to respond.
On his podcast Not Just Football on Wednesday, team captain Cam Heyward shared a simple message for Steelers fans. He acknowledged the slow start while also emphasizing that the team is still working to shake off the rust from the offseason. Heyward’s message was straightforward: the defense is aware of its shortcomings and committed to improving.
"We will see," Heyward told Hayden Walsh on his Not Just Football podcast. "Redemption Sunday is gonna come very soon."
Heyward is confident that the Steelers' defense will bounce back sooner rather than later. Pittsburgh opens up at Acrisure Stadium on Sunday in Week 2 against the Sam Darnold-led Seattle Seahawks, giving the defense a chance to redeem itself.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers superstar pass rusher TJ Watt talks with longtime defensive leader Cam Heyward during training camp.
Heyward’s co-host, Hayden Walsh, asked if the team just “throws out the tape” after a poor showing like Week 1. Heyward made it clear that he already has a plan of attack for improving after a disappointing performance by his unit.
"No, I am watching it multiple times," Heyward said. "My technique has got to be better. I am still knocking off some rust, but like this is just the name of the game. You gotta get better. I can say the same thing last year. We played Atlanta in Week 1, but you know these first couple of games, you are still tryna get back in your flow."
While Week 1 exposed issues in stopping the run and containing dynamic playmakers like Fields, Heyward’s comments provide a sense of accountability and perspective. The Steelers’ defense has the talent to dominate games, but it will take adjustments, consistency, and fully integrating young players into the rotation to reach that level. Fans can take solace knowing the leaders in the locker room are aware of the flaws and determined to get back on track before tougher matchups lie ahead.
Steelers' Defense Has A Chance To Turn The Page
The Steelers know Week 1 was a wake-up call, and they are treating it that way. Every player on the defense understands the expectations, and leaders like Heyward are making sure the team stays focused. Mistakes were made, but the talent is there to fix them quickly. It's better to learn lessons after a win than a loss.
USA Today
Steelers superstar pass rushers Alex Highsmith and TJ Watt celebrate a big-time turnover against the AFC North rival Baltimore Ravens in the 2023 NFL season.
With a home game against the Seahawks coming up, the Steelers' defense has a real opportunity to show what they are capable of. If the unit executes and plays to its potential, fans could see a completely different team take the field, one that lives up to its high pay and star power.
Are you confident this defense will redeem itself Sunday at home in Week 2 against the Seattle Seahawks? 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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