Steelers Excited To See Patrick Peterson Succeed Across Multiple Spots In 2023

As the Pittsburgh Steelers set out to upgrade their roster during the 2023 offseason, they knew that cornerback needed to be at the top of their priority list. Despite leading the NFL in interceptions in 2022, the Steelers' defense still found themselves at the mercy of several high-flying offenses. Now on the fourth day of training camp, fans are getting to see all the new pieces brought onto the squad. What started all the excitement of the offseason in Pittsburgh, though, was when the front office signaled a new direction by signing veteran cornerback, Patrick Peterson.

Steelers Have High Hopes For Peterson's Impact

It makes sense that the signing of Peterson is what really kicked off this new-look offseason for the Steelers. They had plenty of cornerbacks high on their draft board, but the organization has tried bringing in young secondary talent only to have it fizzle without much success (Artie Burns, anyone?). This time, the strategy had to be different. It wouldn't just be about drafting talented, coachable players. It meant having a player already in the building who could be an immediate mentor to those rookies.

That is where Peterson came in. He was the first big signing made by the Steelers and one that instantly shook up expectations considering the quiet offseasons of Pittsburgh's past. Head Coach, Mike Tomlin made sure that Peterson understood his role on the squad, but he was also told that he would be playing multiple spots. For an athlete that had played the cornerback position at a consistently high level, the prospect of moving around was exciting and welcomed by the veteran.

When Peterson arrived at training camp, he made sure that his excitement wasn't a secret. He was getting a unique chance in the later stages of his career to try new things and really spread his wings. As reported by Mark Kaboly of the Athletic, Peterson wasn't shy about the positive state of mind his new surroundings has him in.

“I just want to thank Coach Tomlin for allowing me to be a ballplayer, not just a cornerback.”

That's the unique impact that comes from being around a coach like Tomlin. Peterson spent his career perfecting the cornerback position, but the pure excitement that is on his face during every interview shows just how special his new situation is. 

Steelers Eager To See Where Peterson Fits In

It must be incredibly exciting to be a part of the Steelers front office as training camp progresses. An offseason spent on specific moves, extensive player study, some soul searching, and bringing in the right people is now a reality on the practice field. A big part of that reality is lining their cornerback of many hats around the secondary to see what happens. Peterson has already been moved around consistently through the first three days of training camp, lining up perfectly with the promise he was brought in on.

Peterson's role at this point is somewhat reactionary, being based on where other players are rather than starting with Peterson's spot. When rookie, Joey Porter Jr. spent time at cornerback, Tomlin moved Peterson to safety. Minkah Fitzpatrick is handling some personal issues, and that allowed Peterson even more time at the safety spot. So far, in only three days of training camp, Peterson has lined up at left cornerback, safety and slot corner. With his infectious smile, Peterson spoke about where he expected to end up when the season actually gets underway.

“I honestly believe you’re going to see me a little bit of everywhere.”

The most important characteristic that Peterson has shown since signing with the Steelers has been his willingness. It isn't always common to find a veteran player who is willing to expand what they know for the benefit of the entire squad. 

For Peterson, a player who knows what it's like at the top of his position, it would be easy to simply stay where he's comfortable. Instead, he is taking his cues from rookies like Porter Jr. and the smattering of other players who have rotated through the slot corner spot.

Regardless of the rotations or where he moves to, Peterson knows that he made the right choice in coming to Pittsburgh. Tomlin has a plan, it's been in motion since last season ended, and now it is starting to take shape. Right now, it's about a veteran player trusting a veteran coach, and considering who those two individuals are, 2023 is sure to be something special to watch - no matter where Peterson ends up playing.

Where will Patrick Peterson be most effective in 2023? 

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