Despite fielding a top-level pass rush for the better part of the past decade, the Steelers’ inconsistent play on the back end often prevented them from producing an elite defensive unit. After the front office finally decided to make the much-needed investment into the position, with the additions of Minkah Fitzpatrick, Joe Haden, and Steven Nelson, the Steelers finished top five in points allowed in both 2019 and 2020. The unit similarly finished top five in total yards allowed, top three in passing yards allowed, and atop the league in takeaways in consecutive seasons (first and third, respectively).
Fast forward, and as the team failed to adequately address an aging Haden, along with the absence of a versatile slot player in Mike Hilton.