Steelers Feel They Are "Comfortable" In Specific Area On Defense Even After Massive Shake Up

The Pittsburgh Steelers had shocking offseason news recently as the team released slot corner Arthur Maulet because of a contract dispute. The Steelers did pick up two corners in the NFL Draft and invited some other defensive backs to the ongoing rookie minicamp. It's a position of need that was highlighted by all draft analysis and the contract dispute with Maulet leaves a hole for the Steelers that need to be filled in the coming weeks or according to head coach Mike Tomlin they may already have an idea of who is going to fill that role.

In his most recent media engagement, Tomlin took some time to speak with the media about rookie minicamp. 

The most intriguing question was saved for last when a reporter asked Tomlin the following: 

"I know these are bigger corners that you got here, are you looking for a slot from this group, or maybe externally still at this point?"

Tomlin was pretty clear in his answer and it seems like the team may already have a plan of what's going to go on in the slot.

 "No we are comfortable with the collective that we have in that space." 

Which Steelers Player Will Be The Slot Starter In Week 1?

Rookie camp is an important time for these coaches to understand what they could have for the upcoming season. With Tomlin talking about how they are already comfortable, the fans now look at the current Steelers roster and the ten corners currently under contract. Some corners, like recent addition Joey Porter Jr., are too big and talented to make the jump to the slot. 

Some corners like the recent addition of Duke Dawson make more sense. Dawson is still a young player at 27 with four years of experience under his belt. He was recently signed and has a similar build to Maulet so he could make sense. Some also think the willy veteran, Patrick Peterson, among others, will make the jump over to slot corner. It is safe to say that whatever the Steelers do, they already have that plan in place. 

Why Does This Position Have To Shine?

Some other corners on the roster who could make the switch include a former teammate of Peterson, Chandon Sullivan who came over from the Minnesota Vikings, Steelers backup, James Pierre or free safety, Tre Norwood could even be moved to the position. The position is important as the NFL is currently a passing league and the Steelers play in the AFC which has some elite quarterbacks. The recent schedule release shows what weeks the team has to play Joe Burrow, Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence. The team will be looking to get all the help it can from its' secondary.

This Steelers team, like many other successful ones, will be piloted by an elite defense. Playmakers on every level will help lead this Steelers team into the 2023 season. Hopefully, an improved offensive line, some experience at skill positions and at quarterback will allow this team have the outcome that all coaches, fans and players are hoping for. 

What do you think the Steelers will do at slot corner? What player do you think will start in Week 1? Let us know in the comments below or on Twitter.

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