Pittsburgh Steelers Scramble to Secure Safety Help Following Fitzpatrick Trade
The Current Safety Dilemma
The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in a critical situation at the safety position heading into the new NFL season. Following a blockbuster trade that sent star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to the Miami Dolphins, in exchange for elite cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith, the Steelers have left a considerable hole in their secondary. While Juan Thornhill is currently penciled in as the starting free safety, the team now lacks a viable backup or someone who could seamlessly take over if injuries or performance issues arise. This lack of depth is a looming issue that Pittsburgh must address quickly.
This trade was part of a larger offseason strategy in which the Steelers aggressively pursued high-impact veterans and rookies to reinforce key areas on both sides of the ball. However, the departure of Fitzpatrick, who was widely considered a cornerstone of their defense, has left a gap that cannot be ignored—particularly in a league that increasingly emphasizes pass coverage and versatile defensive backfields.
No Immediate Fix, But Urgency Grows
The Steelers may not be forced to act today, but with the regular season inching closer, they are now on the clock. Every day they go without making a move increases the risk that the best available talent will be scooped up by other franchises. That reality became even more pressing with the recent announcement that veteran safety Tyrann Mathieu has decided to retire. Mathieu’s departure from the NFL not only marks the end of a brilliant career but also removes another experienced option from the free-agent pool and introduces a new suitor—the New Orleans Saints—into the competition for available safeties.
Before Mathieu’s retirement, the Saints had less urgency to sign a new safety, as Mathieu served as a leader and anchor in their defensive backfield. But now, they too will be in pursuit of top-tier talent, and that puts additional pressure on the Steelers to act quickly and decisively if they want to secure a quality replacement for Fitzpatrick.
The Rising Demand for Safeties
As it stands, several accomplished safeties remain unsigned. Among them are All-Pro-level talents like Justin Simmons and Quandre Diggs, both of whom bring leadership, experience, and high-level playmaking to any defense. Jordan Whitehead and Marcus Williams are also still on the market and would offer immediate upgrades for teams in need of a starter or a high-quality rotational player.
Up to this point, the Steelers had appeared to be the most attractive destination for such free agents. With a revamped roster and a serious push toward contention, Pittsburgh could offer the allure of a legitimate playoff run and the stability of a strong coaching staff led by Mike Tomlin. However, with the Saints now entering the equation, the Steelers must take proactive steps to avoid losing out in what could quickly become a competitive bidding war.
Why Pittsburgh Still Has the Upper Hand—For Now
Despite the pressure, Pittsburgh still retains a strategic advantage. The Saints are in a rebuilding phase after several major changes to their roster and coaching staff. They are currently expected to start rookie Tyler Shough at quarterback—a second-round draft pick whose NFL readiness remains a question. New Orleans also lost several veteran contributors to retirement this offseason, creating uncertainty about their ability to compete in the near term.
By contrast, the Steelers are poised to make a deep postseason run. Their decision to acquire quarterback Aaron Rodgers this offseason sent a strong signal that they are going all in on winning now. Adding Rodgers immediately vaulted them into the conversation as potential AFC contenders. On top of that, their defense—already formidable—was further strengthened by the acquisitions of elite cornerbacks Jalen Ramsey and Darius Slay, along with promising rookie Derrick Harmon. With these pieces in place, Pittsburgh has one of the most well-rounded defenses in the league—except at safety.
This discrepancy makes it all the more critical for the Steelers to solidify their secondary. Given their commitment to contending this year, there is no justification for leaving such a pivotal position up in the air.
A Roster Built to Compete—Except at One Spot
Looking at the full scope of Pittsburgh’s offseason, it’s clear they have made major strides in building a championship-caliber team. In addition to Aaron Rodgers at quarterback, they bolstered their receiving corps with the addition of DK Metcalf, who brings size, speed, and toughness to the offense. Ramsey and Slay are both veteran cornerbacks with Pro Bowl resumes, capable of locking down opposing receivers and mentoring younger players. Jonnu Smith brings versatility at the tight end position, giving Rodgers another reliable weapon in the passing game.
With these high-profile acquisitions, the Steelers have constructed one of the most talented rosters in the league. Their defensive front remains dominant, and their offense is expected to operate at a much higher level under Rodgers’ leadership. The only glaring weakness is the safety position, where Thornhill will be asked to take on a full-time starting role without a proven backup behind him.
Even if Thornhill plays at a high level, injuries are an ever-present risk in the NFL. Not having a contingency plan could be costly, especially in a division as competitive as the AFC North, where every game can have playoff implications.
Time Is Not on Their Side
The longer the Steelers delay, the narrower their choices will become. Free agency, particularly at this point in the offseason, operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Once training camps begin and teams begin evaluating their rosters, remaining free agents with starting-caliber talent will be snapped up quickly.
If the Steelers want to land a player like Justin Simmons or Marcus Williams, they’ll need to move swiftly. These players will not remain unsigned for much longer, and once they’re off the market, Pittsburgh could be left with lesser options or forced into making a midseason trade, which would likely cost valuable draft capital.
Additionally, the urgency to sign a player now allows for a smoother transition. A safety brought in during training camp has time to learn the playbook, build chemistry with the defense, and adjust to the team’s culture. Waiting until the regular season starts, or worse, until injuries strike, could result in more disruption and reduced performance.
Free Agent Options Still Available
Let’s take a closer look at the potential free-agent targets Pittsburgh could pursue:
1. Justin Simmons – Widely regarded as one of the top safeties in the NFL over the past few years, Simmons brings experience, leadership, and a nose for the football. He’s a versatile player who can play deep coverage, help in the box, or match up in man coverage when needed.
2. Quandre Diggs – Another veteran with Pro Bowl experience, Diggs is known for his range, awareness, and leadership. He’s been a consistent performer and would bring a reliable presence to the Steelers’ defensive backfield.
3. Jordan Whitehead – Younger than some of the other options, Whitehead is a physical, hard-hitting safety with starting experience and upside. He could fit well in a rotational or starting role and contribute immediately.
4. Marcus Williams – Although coming off injury, Williams is a ball-hawking safety with excellent coverage skills. If healthy, he could be one of the best signings Pittsburgh could make.
All of these options represent significant upgrades over the current depth behind Juan Thornhill. More importantly, they give the team flexibility and security at a position that could otherwise become a liability.
The Saints Factor: Rising Pressure
The Saints’ entry into the safety market changes the dynamics of free agency. While they may not be considered favorites to win now, New Orleans still has appeal. They offer a starting opportunity, a passionate fanbase, and a chance for free agents to assume a leadership role in a young, evolving defense.
For players nearing the end of their careers or those looking to re-establish value, the Saints could be a desirable destination. That puts the onus on Pittsburgh to make their case—and their offers—more compelling. Whether through financial incentives, guaranteed playing time, or the promise of a Super Bowl run, the Steelers will need to present a clear vision for success to land their preferred targets.
Don’t Wait—Act
Ultimately, the Steelers need to make a move. The rest of their offseason suggests a team that is serious about competing for a championship in 2025. Leaving such a vital role unattended would undermine all the other investments they’ve made. They’ve upgraded their quarterback, secondary, wide receivers, and tight ends. Now is the time to finish the job.
Waiting any longer introduces more risk, not just from the Saints, but from any team that suffers an injury or decides they want to upgrade their secondary before Week 1. The competition will only get fiercer from here.
By acting quickly, Pittsburgh can secure a top-tier safety, ensure continuity on defense, and head into the season with no glaring holes. They have the pieces to be elite. Now they just need to complete the puzzle.
Leave a Reply