Steelers Now
New Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf is already impressed with what he’s seen on the other side of the ball in Pittsburgh.
“I think they’re the best defense I’ve ever seen,” Metcalf said during a recent interview with NFL Network’s Steve Smith and Ian Rapoport.
It’s a bold claim from a player who spent the first five years of his career in Seattle, regularly practicing against competitive defensive units. But based on the talent the Steelers have assembled, Metcalf’s praise may be more truth than exaggeration.
Pittsburgh’s defense has undergone a major transformation this offseason. The team used its first-round pick on disruptive defensive tackle Derrick Harmon, then made headlines by trading for All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey and signing veteran defensive back Darius Slay. These additions complement a core that already includes former Defensive Player of the Year T.J. Watt, productive veteran Cam Heyward, linebacker Patrick Queen, and rising young corner Joey Porter Jr.
The secondary saw significant change, as the Steelers dealt away star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick in the Ramsey trade. However, they moved quickly to reload, acquiring veteran safeties Chuck Clark and Juan Thornhill, while also re-signing DeShon Elliott to maintain depth and experience on the back end.
Metcalf, along with the rest of the Steelers offense, has had a firsthand look at the unit throughout training camp in Latrobe. The group has reportedly shown speed, physicality, and cohesion early on, and Metcalf’s endorsement may serve as early foreshadowing of what this defense could become.
Playing against such a loaded defense every day also serves as a benefit to the offense. The daily challenge of facing a top-tier unit is expected to help sharpen Pittsburgh’s attack, particularly as a revamped offense works to build chemistry heading into the regular season.
While having a defense this talented is certainly promising, it also brings added expectations. If the unit fails to perform at an elite level, questions will undoubtedly be raised. However, if Metcalf’s comments are any indication, the Steelers could be on the verge of fielding one of the most dominant defenses in the league.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: DK Metcalf: This Steelers Defense the Best He’s Ever Seen
