Behind the Steel Curtain
A video that surfaced on social media this week showed former Los Angeles Rams star Aaron Donald putting another Pittsburgh-area product through a workout, as the future Hall of Fame defensive tackle worked with new Steelers safety Jaquan Brisker on pass-rush techniques.
The workout paired two Western Pennsylvania standouts. Donald, a Penn Hills graduate, is widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, while Brisker starred at nearby Gateway High School before playing collegiately at Penn State and beginning his NFL career with the Chicago Bears.
Brisker signed a one-year contract with the Steelers this offseason after spending his first three NFL seasons in Chicago. The former second-round pick appeared in 35 games with the Bears, recording 233 tackles, five interceptions, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and 5.5 sacks. Pittsburgh is hoping Brisker can provide physicality and versatility in the secondary while giving him the opportunity to reestablish his value heading into free agency next spring.
Donald’s appearance in the video also comes amid continued speculation about a possible NFL return. The three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year retired following the 2023 season after a decorated 10-year career that included eight first-team All-Pro selections, 10 Pro Bowls, a Super Bowl championship, and 111 career sacks. Although Donald has repeatedly said he is enjoying retirement, rumors resurfaced this offseason after the Rams acquired star pass rusher Myles Garrett, leading to renewed fan speculation that the dominant defensive tackle could be tempted to return. Donald has not indicated that he plans to unretire.
For Brisker, learning from one of the game’s all-time greats could pay dividends. As a rookie in 2022, he recorded four sacks, showcasing an ability to blitz effectively from the safety position. That skill set fits well in new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham’s scheme, which has historically featured defensive backs as aggressive pressure players and values versatility throughout the defense.
If Brisker can stay healthy and capitalize on those opportunities, he could become one of Pittsburgh’s most valuable defensive chess pieces in 2026 while positioning himself for a significant contract after the season.
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