Steelers Have Perfect Answer To Fix Defensive Problem Jets' Justin Fields Exposed

The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense gave fans a big reason for concern when the New York Jets put up 394 yards of total offense on them in Week 1. The Jets’ running game was tearing up this Steelers defense as Breece Hall, Braelon Allen, and Justin Fields all had a day on the ground. Fields also had a productive day as a passer, keeping the Steelers’ defense off balance throughout the contest. 

The injury to first-round pick Derrick Harmon has clearly hurt this front seven, but Steelers insider Gerry Dulac believes the coaching staff made a mistake on Sunday by not playing rookie Yahya Black more. He played just 24 snaps for the Steelers' defense, leaving many to wonder why his presence wasn’t increased given the struggles against the run.

Dulac was asked a question in his chat for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette from a Steelers fan about Fields’ comments that the Steelers' defense was very easy to figure out. Many players have said the same thing over the years, noting that the defense has not changed much for decades. According to Dulac, one way to help the Steelers improve at stopping the run and slowing down opposing offenses is to play Black more than the 24 snaps he saw on Sunday.

"I did not hear them, but thanks for pointing them up," Dulac said in his chat on Wednesday. "The consistency of the inconsistency of the run defense is troubling, no question. I know Derrick Harmon didn't play, but that's one guy. But you drafted Yahya Black for a reason, so play him, too."

Black, a fifth-round pick out of Iowa, has been praised throughout training camp and preseason for his strength at the point of attack and ability to shed blocks. While the Steelers drafted Harmon to be a difference-maker in the middle, Black was viewed as a developmental piece who could possibly contribute sooner than expected. Well, after Week 1, many pundits want to see more of him. Even though Pro Football Focus graded Black with a weak 44.9 for his output against the Jets.

Dulac’s belief that the rookie should have been on the field more isn’t just speculation—it reflects what many fans saw as the Jets consistently ran through Pittsburgh’s defensive front. The Steelers’ depth is being tested, and with Harmon sidelined, the coaching staff needs to lean on the young talent available instead of overworking the veterans.

If the Steelers want to avoid repeat defensive performances like the one against the Jets, they’ll need to make adjustments quickly. The answer may already be on the roster, and Black could provide the spark this defense desperately needs in run support. Giving him more reps would allow the coaching staff to evaluate how he holds up against starting-caliber offensive lines and whether he can take on a bigger role while Harmon recovers. 

Steelers Should Absolutely Give Yahya Black More Game Reps

With matchups against other strong rushing teams looming on the schedule, Pittsburgh cannot afford to wait any longer. The solution to fixing their defensive issues might be as simple as trusting their rookie to step up and contribute. Black has already received a great deal of praise for what he has done in his young Steelers career. 

Now Dulac is calling on the Steelers’ brass to see if Black’s hype is warranted. It appears Dulac believes many of the reps currently going to other veterans on the defensive line should instead be given to Black. Isaiahh Loudermilk played 31 defensive reps and earned a 39.3 grade. Clearly, this defensive line needs to consider all options available while Harmon recovers.

What did you make of Justin Fields saying the Steelers' defense was easy to figure out? 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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