Steelers' Huge Free Agent Signing Doesn't Address The True Problem On Defense

The Pittsburgh Steelers have utilized free agency as a way to address holes on their roster ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. So far, the Steelers have made some splash signings and trades. Pittsburgh has addressed its receiving corps by trading for Michael Pittman Jr., as well as adding a backup running back and secondary help. All positions that the organization was speculated to address in the upcoming draft have been upgraded. These signings give the franchise flexibility in who it decides to draft.

The Steelers have the ability to go with the "best player available" approach after free agency; however, there is one position group that was addressed in free agency that may still be a position of need, even after these splash signings. One of those additions is Jaquan Brisker.

Pittsburgh recently signed the former Chicago Bears safety to a one-year deal.  The move will provide solid depth and gives Brisker a chance to start at the position. Brisker plays mostly in the box or as a slot safety, but took some reps at free safety with Chicago. Pittsburgh still lacks a true free safety on their roster. 

The Steelers have found themselves with issues at the safety position ever since they made a trade with the Miami Dolphins. Pittsburgh traded away its star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, leaving a huge hole at free safety. The Steelers had safety DeShon Elliott, but he is known for playing in the box and being a hard-hitting run supporter. The Black and Gold missed a ball-hawking free safety roaming the middle of the field in 2025.

The Steelers tried a committee approach to emulate what Fitzpatrick brought to the team, but it didn't work. Juan Thornhill and Chuck Clark did not fit into the role. Thornhill was released mid-season, and Clark wasn't great. Pittsburgh ultimately decided to trade for Kyle Dugger from the New England Patriots. 

Dugger is a free agent and is likely not being brought back as the safety room is filling up now. Dugger was better than the aforementioned players, but didn't make as big of an impact as hoped. Steelers beat writer Christopher Carter spoke on his podcast Locked On Steelers about what Brisker adds to the roster and potential issues his fit might bring.

"I don't think Jaquan Brisker is the superstar at the position," Carter said. "I think he is a decent starter. Brisker is not going to come in to Pittsburgh and be a shutdown safety in my opinion."

Brisker is similar to Elliott as he plays close to the line, hits hard, and brings the energy. The Steelers only signed him to a one-year deal, so they haven't committed a ton to him. The Steelers are focused on revamping the secondary, whether that be through the draft or free agency. Brisker's short deal and his lack of being a quality free safety, allows the Steelers to still look at safety in the draft. Brisker's signing doesn't rule out a trade-up for Caleb Downs or Dillon Thieneman. 

Brisker was not known for his coverage skills in Chicago. A problem that the Steelers had last year is not yet solved, even with this signing. The safety allowed a 75% completion percentage to opposing receivers last year. This mark will not help Pittsburgh with their centerfielder issue. 

Steelers Can't Shy Away From The Safety Position In The Draft

The Steelers need to address the long-term player at safety. They have utilized short-term free agents at the position since Fitzpatrick's departure. The Steelers have a need there going forward and this year's draft has some prospects at the position that could catch the Steelers' eye. 

Pittsburgh has over 10 draft picks and could utilize them to trade up for one of those elite safeties, like the ones mentioned previously. This would ensure that the safety position is locked up for the future, and that the Steelers can remain a solid defense in the coming years. 

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