The Pittsburgh Steelers are currently facing critical issues within their cornerback position, a situation that was not anticipated by fans. During the 2025 offseason, General Manager Omar Khan acquired veteran cornerback Darius Slay with a one-year, $10 million contract and traded for Jalen Ramsey. However, this strategy of adding experienced but aging players has not yielded the desired results.
Current Cornerback Performance
Jalen Ramsey has performed competently but has only cleared a modest standard of success at cornerback. He has demonstrated strong physicality as a run defender and solid ball skills in the passing game. In contrast, Joey Porter Jr. has not shown significant improvement in his third year, while Darius Slay’s performance has been underwhelming.
Darius Slay’s Struggles
Entering Week 8 of the season, Slay’s statistics tell a troubling story. He has allowed 20 receptions on 28 targets, resulting in 302 yards and two touchdowns. Notably, he has not recorded any interceptions, contributing to a 130.4 passer rating for opposing quarterbacks, according to Pro Football Focus. Additionally, Slay has been credited with six missed tackles this season, highlighting his struggles.
At 34 years old, Slay is notably older than any starting cornerback in the NFL, raising concerns about his longevity and effectiveness in this role. The Steelers may be approaching a critical juncture where a younger cornerback is urgently needed to improve their performance.
Cory Trice Jr.’s Potential Return
The Steelers are considering calling up Cory Trice Jr. to bolster their cornerback lineup. However, Trice has faced a series of serious injuries during his career. After suffering an ACL tear in his first NFL training camp and experiencing multiple hamstring injuries since 2024, his availability has been limited.
Injury Concerns
- Multiple season-ending injuries during college.
- ACL tear in the first NFL training camp.
- Recent hamstring injury during the training camp’s Friday Night Lights practice.
Despite these challenges, Mike Tomlin has confirmed that Trice is expected to return to the field shortly. Though not yet officially activated for practice, updates regarding his status are anticipated soon.
Trice’s Talent and the Defensive Challenge
When healthy, Cory Trice has shown extensive talent that hints at first-round draft potential, overshadowed by his injury history. Standing at an imposing 6’3” and weighing 206 pounds, he possesses exceptional ball skills and agility.
The aging composition of the Steelers’ secondary has revealed the complexities of maintaining a robust defense. With Trice expected back soon, Coach Tomlin may need to make crucial decisions regarding Darius Slay’s role based on ongoing performance issues.
The Steelers’ cornerback situation remains precarious, emphasizing the pressing need for a transformative impact to restore defensive strength.
