The Pittsburgh Steelers were already underdogs heading into this past Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but the betting line sunk even further against them with the final injury report of the week, which saw the bulk of their starting secondary ruled out, headlined by All-Pro safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
While slot cornerback Arthur Maulet typically has a significant role in the defense, the only full-time starter who ended up dressing and playing was fifth-year veteran safety Terrell Edmunds, himself just coming back after missing a game due to a concussion.
But his presence, not just through his play but his communication and leadership, was critical to the defense’s success on the day, as second-year Tre Norwood explained.