Steelers Focus on Speed in Secondary for NFL Draft: Tim Benz’s Preview
The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, with a strong focus on how the Pittsburgh Steelers will enhance their secondary. Notable insights come from Matt Williamson, a former professional scout, who recently discussed the team’s potential selections during his “Breakfast with Benz” podcast.
Steelers’ Strategy for Secondary Drafting
The Steelers have actively strengthened their secondary by acquiring cornerback Jamel Dean from Tampa Bay and safeties Jaquan Brisker from Chicago and Darnell Savage from Washington/Buffalo. They also retained Asante Samuel Jr. Despite these additions, Williamson believes the team is not finished upgrading this crucial area of their defense.
Speed as a Priority
According to Williamson, the Steelers will likely prioritize speed when selecting players for the secondary. “I think the secondary still is on the slower end,” he stated, indicating a need for greater athleticism in upcoming drafts. He expects them to draft at least one, if not two, secondary players, especially if they make multiple picks.
Top Safety Prospects
- Caleb Downs (Ohio State): Regarded as the top safety, ranked sixth overall by ESPN.com. Likely out of reach for the Steelers in the first round.
- Dillon Thieneman (Oregon): Known for his speed with a 4.37-second 40-yard dash. However, Williamson doubts he will be available at pick No. 21.
Williamson expresses a strong interest in Thieneman, suggesting he would be a perfect complement to DeShon Elliott if Brisker had not been signed. However, he considers the chances of Thieneman falling to the Steelers slim.
Other Potential Candidates
Looking beyond the top prospects, two names stand out: Genesis Smith from Arizona and Jalon Kilgore of South Carolina. Smith’s style, being more of a free-safety ball-hawk, is not seen as a fit for Pittsburgh by Williamson. Kilgore, though an athlete, lacks refinement in his game.
On a more positive note, Bud Clark from TCU appears promising. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 188 pounds, Clark has demonstrated solid coverage skills, making him a fitting candidate for the Steelers’ plans.
- Zakee Wheatley (Penn State): Recorded six interceptions and 144 tackles, could be a fourth-round option.
- Treydan Stukes (Arizona): Excellent athlete with a notable 4.33-second 40-yard dash time. He is likely viewed as a second-round prospect.
- VJ Payne (Kansas State) and Kamari Ramsey (USC): Also considered good fits for the team’s new defensive strategies.
Evolving Strategy
In discussions about how the Steelers will utilize their secondary, Williamson touched on the influence of players like Jalen Ramsey. He noted that the team’s approach to deploying safeties may evolve, impacting their draft strategy significantly.
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Steelers have their eyes set on improving speed and athleticism within their secondary, making it a foundational aspect of their overall strategy.
