When Pittsburgh Steelers legend Troy Polamalu decided he would retire after spending over a decade of service as the keystone of the team’s secondary, it was widely assumed that 2013 fourth round pick Shamarko Thomas would step into his role at the strong safety position. After five preseason games worth of preparation it was announced that Will Allen would take on starting duties at the beginning of the 2015 season.
Will Allen? The Steelers veteran safety has been a serviceable backup in years past, especially when Polamalu was injured, but did not look like the best option to go with on a defense that is in a transitional period.