Pittsburgh Review

The Pittsburgh Steelers' defensive backs were instrumental in creating a takeaway culture during the 2024 NFL season, contributing significantly to the team's interception tally. The secondary accounted for 15 of the team's 17 interceptions, tying for third-most in the league.

Donte Jackson and Beanie Bishop were standout performers. Jackson, acquired from Carolina in exchange for wide receiver Diontae Johnson, led with five interceptions. Bishop, an undrafted rookie who played extensively in the slot, recorded four interceptions.

Despite their contributions to turnovers, the secondary experienced inconsistency throughout the season. They allowed an average of 228 passing yards per game, ranking 25th in the NFL. However, they managed a passer rating of 87.5 against them, which was seventh-best.

Joey Porter Jr., building on his strong rookie performance, often matched up against top receivers but also led all corners with 12 penalties accepted against him. This is common among press coverage specialists and remains an area for improvement.

Jackson's career-high five interceptions contributed to a passer rating of 69.9 against him, while Bishop allowed a rating of 59.5. Cory Trice Jr., recovering from a knee injury that sidelined him his rookie year, showed potential as a future breakout player.

Safeties Minkah Fitzpatrick and DeShon Elliott formed an effective tandem. Elliott impressed after joining as a free agent, finishing second on the team with 108 tackles despite missing two games due to injury. He excelled in coverage against tight ends and had a low missed tackle rate of 2.7 percent.

Fitzpatrick rebounded from a turnover-less previous year with one interception and one forced fumble while maintaining his reputation as one of the league's best safeties by earning his fifth Pro Bowl selection.

Damontae Kazee concluded his third Steelers season with an interception alongside Cameron Sutton who played both safety and slot corner after returning midseason from suspension.

Veteran Miles Killebrew continued to lead special teams as captain and was recognized as an All-Pro in that role in 2023.

James Pierre rejoined late in training camp and became crucial on special teams as a gunner. C.J. Henderson was signed amid injuries but did not play before landing on injured reserve.

Looking ahead to offseason changes, Jackson, Sutton, Henderson, Kazee, and Pierre are all set to become unrestricted free agents which could alter the composition of this unit moving forward into next season.