Jalen Ramsey's Role with Steelers Shrinks as Slot Position Becomes Primary Focus The Pittsburgh Steelers have outlined a clear path for Jalen Ramsey in 2026, positioning him as a slot cornerback with limited opportunities as an outside defender. After a challenging season as an outside cornerback, the team has shifted its focus toward utilizing Ramsey’s skills in the slot, with safety snaps serving as a secondary option. This strategy reflects a broader effort to address defensive needs while managing Ramsey’s declining athleticism, which has made him a liability in coverage against elite wide receivers. The Steelers’ approach has been shaped by both roster moves and strategic planning. Last season’s struggles for Ramsey as an outside cornerback prompted the team to move him inside, where he was occasionally deployed in the slot. This shift was further reinforced by free-agent signings, including Jamel Dean, who signaled the team’s intent to prioritize outside cornerback depth. The addition of Asante Samuel Jr. as a backup at the outside position further solidified the depth chart, leaving little room for Ramsey to reclaim a primary role on the perimeter. The Steelers’ decision to bring in Jaquan Brisker as a safety also highlights their focus on rotational flexibility. Brisker’s potential role in a safety rotation suggests the team is not building a system that forces Ramsey to become a full-time safety. Instead, the slot is being positioned as Ramsey’s primary assignment, with safety snaps reserved for situational use. This structure limits Ramsey’s opportunities to play outside, where he struggled last season, and places him in a role that aligns with his current physical capabilities. The team’s draft strategy further supports this plan.#jaquan_brisker #pittsburgh_steers #jalen_ramsey #jamal_dean #asante_samuel_jr
