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For 11 seasons, Dick LeBeau had been the head of the once vaunted Pittsburgh Steelers defense. Led by future Hall of Famer Troy Polamalu, they had became an archetype for defense in today’s NFL. However, with the defense finishing 27th in passing out of 32 teams, it is clear that this is no longer the powerful Steelers defense of the past. Now, coming into the 2015 NFL season with the departure of LeBeau and retirements of Polamalu and veteran cornerback Ike Taylor, Pittsburgh’s secondary looks to perform a much-needed overhaul following last year’s disappointing results.
To replace cornerstones Polamalu and Taylor, the Steelers put in place veterans Will Allen and William Gay. Both are suitable replacements for the retired Steelers. Gay has been with the Steelers for all but one season in his career, while Allen was a three time Pro Bowler in his prime. Mike Mitchell is entering his second season at free safety and looks like a solid mainstay at the position. The biggest question mark comes at the second corner position. Cortez Allen, who was once seen as a solid player earlier in his career, has dealt with inconstant play and benching last season. In the second round of the NFL Draft, Pittsburgh selected Ole Miss standout, Senquez Golson, who will be the rookie to watch in black and gold. Their battle for the left cornerback position will be interesting to watch all of training camp and preseason.
Now with former linebacker coach Keith Butler as defensive coordinator, a new era has begun in Pittsburgh. This year, the secondary of the Steelers will have to not be a liability for them to achieve success in the highly competitive AFC North.
Daniel Johnson is the Beat Writer for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Follow his on Twitter @Dan_Johnson43. “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google
