Steelers' Secondary Coach Makes Huge Jalen Ramsey Comparison Ahead Of 2026 Role

The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense had a ton of star power in 2025. The front office made an interesting trade ahead of the season, sending star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a 2027 fifth-round pick to the Miami Dolphins in exchange for cornerback Jalen Ramsey, tight end Jonnu Smith, and a 2027 seventh-rounder. While many fans were puzzled, it was purely a money decision: Fitzpatrick was a free agent after the 2025 season, and the Steelers got two players they believed would work out well. While Smith didn't live up to expectations, Ramsey proved he could be a versatile threat. He didn't have the same lockdown ability he had earlier in his career, but he made up for it by playing multiple positions, including safety. 

Ramsey earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2025 for his efforts, and the veteran was a huge contributor. He started the season playing a mix of inside and outside corner, but as injuries hit the safety group, he transitioned to that spot. He found a home right away and remained there throughout the latter part of the season. Ramsey played all 17 games, logging 88 combined tackles (tying his career high), eight pass deflections, and an interception. Along with that, he sacked the quarterback three times, a career high. 

Ramsey proved that, though he isn't necessarily that shutdown corner that he once was, there's still a role in the defense where he can be a threat. Whether that's rushing the quarterback, playing safety in the box, or playing in the slot, he could be a producer. The Steelers' new secondary coach, Joe Whitt Jr., had a lot to say about Ramsey's role in Pittsburgh's new defensive scheme. Steelers insider Nick Farabaugh reported what Whitt had to say about Ramsey on X, even making a bold player comparison. 

Comparing Ramsey to a Hall of Famer like Woodson is a tremendous compliment. However, it isn't completely asinine. Towards the end of Woodson's career, he began playing a similar role to Ramsey, just being a pest wherever he was lined up. 

Ramsey being involved in many different spots will give the opposing offense many difficulties. They'll have to check on where he's lined up every time he's out there, and that could make a huge difference. He'll be able to give quarterbacks fits, just like his mentor, Woodson, did. Whitt told the media that Ramsey confides in Woodson, saying the two even talked. 

This will be huge for the Steelers' defense and front office as they'll try to get all of the production they can from Ramsey, as his contract is a big one. If he can embrace the role, he'll have the chance to be a difference maker on a defense that's looking to flip the script from 2025. 

The Steelers' Defense Is Ready To Turn The Tide

With a new coaching staff, the Steelers' defensive scheming will be a change from last year. Many players cite the poor communication on defense as a factor in its mediocrity; the scheme is another big reason for the down year. Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham and his staff have all the talent in the world on this defense; now, it's just about putting it together.

Utilizing the talent in roles where they'll thrive is one way that the defense can become a top unit. Continuing to turn Ramsey into a Woodson-esque player is one step in the right direction. The defense has some big expectations for 2026, and time will tell if it can make the jump. 

#SteelerNation