The Pittsburgh Steelers' cornerback depth has sparked trade rumors, but Omar Khan's own words should serve as a cautionary tale for any potential deal. Khan's rationale for loading up on defensive backs is rooted in the reality of injuries, a position that tends to suffer more than others. This is a critical point, as the Steelers' secondary has already faced significant challenges due to injuries in the past season.
One of the key players, Jamel Dean, has a history of injuries, having never played a full season in his seven NFL years. This trend is likely to continue as he ages, meaning the team will need to fill in for him periodically. Additionally, Joey Porter Jr. and Jalen Ramsey have both dealt with injuries, and the team's safety position is further weakened by the concussions suffered by Jaquan Brisker and the limited playing time of DeShon Elliott.
The Steelers' secondary ended the 2025 season very differently than expected, with changes and additions made throughout the year. This highlights the importance of depth, as the team needs to be prepared for any eventuality. Trading away a cornerback for a 2027 Day Three pick, as some have suggested, would be a mistake. The Steelers are better off protecting themselves by maintaining depth and talent at a critical position that can be quickly depleted by injuries.
In my opinion, the Steelers' strategy of loading up on defensive backs is a smart one, given the position's injury history. This approach ensures that the team has the depth and talent needed to weather any injuries that may occur. While trading away a player for a pick may seem appealing, it's important to remember that the Steelers' secondary has already faced significant challenges due to injuries, and trading away a player could leave them even more vulnerable.
One thing that immediately stands out is the need for the Steelers to balance their desire for depth with the potential value of a trade. While the team may be able to acquire a valuable pick, the risk of losing a key player to injury is too great. The Steelers should continue to prioritize depth and talent at the cornerback position, ensuring that they are prepared for any challenges that may arise during the season.
