Steelers Defense Under Fire After Consecutive Losses

The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense, once a cornerstone of their success, is now under intense scrutiny after allowing over 30 points in each of their first two games of the 2025 NFL season. This marks the first time since 2002 that the Steelers have faced such a defensive collapse early in the season.

Key Issues on the Field

The defense, which boasts six former first-round picks, has struggled to contain opposing offenses. In their recent 31-17 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, the Steelers allowed back-to-back 100-yard rushers, further highlighting their defensive woes. T.J. Watt, the league's highest-paid non-quarterback, failed to record a sack for the second consecutive game, raising concerns about his impact on the field.

Player Reactions and Adjustments

Linebacker Patrick Queen expressed his frustration, stating, "I don't like people just having their way, and we did that again today. It's definitely aggravating, but I can't wait to get back to work." Queen emphasized the need for the team to address their defensive issues quickly to turn the season around.

T.J. Watt, who signed a lucrative three-year extension in the offseason, has not recorded a sack in his last six games, including the playoff loss to Baltimore last year. Despite promises of adjustments to his alignment, Watt has largely remained in his usual position, limiting his effectiveness.

Looking Ahead

The Steelers' defense showed some signs of improvement, particularly in limiting the Seahawks' rushing attack compared to their Week 1 performance against the Jets. However, consistency remains a significant issue. Safety Jalen Ramsey and edge rusher Nick Herbig made key plays, but the overall defensive performance was lackluster.

As the Steelers prepare for Week 3, the focus will be on making necessary adjustments to their defensive schemes and improving execution on the field. With several key players dealing with injuries, including Derrick Harmon and Joey Porter Jr., the team will need to rely on their depth and resilience to overcome these challenges.

Conclusion

The Steelers' defense is at a crossroads, and the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether they can regain their dominant form. As Patrick Queen aptly put it, "We have some of the most talented guys to ever play their positions in here. We just need to go out there and execute." The Steelers must find a way to stop the bleeding and get back to their winning ways before the season slips away.