The Pittsburgh Steelers have had an exciting 2026 offseason. Whether it be welcoming in new coaches, or drafting and signing new players to the roster, the Steelers have a brand new feel. From bold front office moves, to fresh schemes on both sides of the ball, the organization signaled a clear intent to compete in 2026. Rookie additions bring speed and versatility, while key veteran signings aim to stabilize critical positions. Coaching changes promise sharper execution and a stronger identity. With expectations high and the schedule being unforgiving, Pittsburgh’s blend of youth and experience could ignite a meaningful run.
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Steelers' Daylen Everette (23) celebrates a big play in practice with Jaquan Brisker (3).
In 2025, Pittsburgh lacked safety depth, and it cost them in major ways. With Minkah Fitzpatrick being traded the summer before the season started for Jalen Ramsey, this gave the Steelers an interesting decision within the defensive backfield.
Now Pittsburgh is turning the page, and Jaquan Brisker is a big reason why the optimism feels real. After a few uneven seasons, Pittsburgh enters 2026 with a roster that looks faster and more cohesive, and Brisker’s arrival gives the defense a clear identity boost.
The former Penn State Nittany Lions standout was drafted in 2022 by the Chicago Bears and played in the Windy City up until this season. Brisker looks to bounce back after what many people considered a rocky season for him last year in Chicago. Steelers insider Mark Kaboly spoke on this during a recent episode of Steelers Collective.
"He’s playing like he’s got something to prove," said Kaboly. "He’s back home finally."
Brisker is originally from the Pittsburgh area and the team signed the Monroeville, Pennsylvania native to a one-year, $5.5 million deal. He noted in his opening press conference that he was ecstatic for the opportunity to play in the Steel City.
"I just get chills, just knowing that I’m going to be a Pittsburgh Steeler and I’m from Pittsburgh," Brisker said after initially signing with the organization.
Brisker has very much stood out thus far during his time as a Steeler and has shown immediate results this offseason. At OTAs, also known as Organized Team Activities, Brisker has stood out for the things that have always made him dangerous, which are having a fast trigger, great toughness, and elite instincts.
Steelers.com
Steelers' Jaquan Brisker speaking with several members of the Pittsburgh media as he gets introduced to the team.
However, there’s a noticeable refinement to his game. You can see his attention to minor details this offseason, and it makes him a reliable leader.
"Brisker will benefit by playing with Jalen Ramsey and being able to play multiple positions," Kaboly added.
As Kaboly alluded towards the next layer and potentially the one that unlocks his ceiling the most is playing alongside Jalen Ramsey. Ramsey’s impact goes beyond name recognition. He and Brisker are very similar as they both are very capable of moving around the defensive backfield. As everyone knows, iron sharpens iron, and that is what the Steelers are hoping for with Brisker and Ramsey.
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Steelers cornerback Jalen Ramsey runs on the field as the team works out during a 2025 training camp practice at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, PA.
What really jumps out is how their skill sets complement each other in real time. With Ramsey able to lock down a side of the field and communicate pre-snap calls, Brisker can play faster, take smarter risks, and play with more confidence. Hopefully this unlocks another gear that he did not have in Chicago.
Steelers Fans Should Be Ready For A Very Explosive Defense In 2026
This year's version of the Steelers defense will be more flexible and exciting and Brisker should have fans enthusiastic. He is a competitor who will give his all on the field and the Steelers organization can expect big things from him, as well as the defense as a whole. It will be a bright spot in what has been a rough last few seasons on the defensive side on the ball.
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