Steelers Given A Solid Option To Replace Former Special Teams Captain

The Pittsburgh Steelers' secondary had some issues in 2025, though injuries were a major cause. The team remedied some of the depth throughout the 2026 offseason, like signing safeties Jaquan Brisker and Darnell Savage to deals. The group will now be put to the test under a new defensive scheme, which should employ some more modern tactics. Safety has been an issue since trading Minkah Fitzpatrick, but the team is hopeful they've added enough stopgap talent to make a difference. 

The defense took a step back last season, but with several additions and the new scheme, there should be an increase in production. With training camp just around the corner, the Steelers will have the chance to evaluate their roster to ensure they don't need to make any moves before the regular season starts. Teams haven't been afraid to add veteran players at positions of need during this time of the offseason, and Pittsburgh could be one of them.

With special teams being a major part of the Black and Gold's identity, the Steelers have tried to find replacements for several departures there. The team lost its special teams captain, Miles Killebrew, and has been finding versatile players who can step up for the unit. If the front office is looking to knock out two birds with one stone, they could look for more safety depth, as well as a capable special teamer. Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox shared the name of a veteran that the Steelers should sign, that being former Dallas Cowboys safety Donovan Wilson. 

"While not every team values positional versatility and special teams ability, the Pittsburgh Steelers typically have. They have also done some offseason shuffling at safety while losing backup and core special teamer Miles Killebrew in free agency. Wilson could help fill multiple roles in Pittsburgh, and he also has experience playing for new Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy. Adding the Texas A&M product at this point in the offseason would be a strong value move for a squad looking to make a deep playoff run in 2026," Knox wrote. 

As Knox stated, the Steelers are a team known for adding players who can play special teams and their natural positions. Wilson would qualify for that notion and could be an underrated addition to the roster. Pittsburgh could use his services for multiple roles, and he would likely command a cheap contract that could give them some versatility. 

Wilson started 15 games for the Cowboys in 2025. He registered two interceptions and 71 combined tackles, along with five pass deflections. The Steelers could nab a starting-caliber player who could be a positive force on special teams for cheap. The safety room could benefit from this depth if the Steelers realize that it is something they need to add in a hurry. Wilson was a consistent contributor in Dallas and even had great sack numbers and a season with over 100 tackles. If Pittsburgh wants to take its team to the next level, he could be someone to look into as the offseason progresses. 

Steelers' Safety Group Is An Interesting One

The Steelers used Jalen Ramsey as a safety a lot in 2025, especially after a devastating injury to starter DeShon Elliott. With Elliott back in the mix, the room should be back up to snuff with him and Brisker, the projected starters, and Ramsey floating around. However, beyond that, Savage was ineffective for the Buffalo Bills and is looking for a resurgence with Pittsburgh. The room isn't deep, and could use another body.

The defense will need to get the most out of its safeties, with two intriguing starters, but a clear issue with depth. Wilson or someone similar will have to be on the radar to add before the season starts. 

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