The Pittsburgh Steelers’ offseason has been marked by speculation regarding possible upgrades to their secondary, particularly amidst rumors linking them to high-profile cornerbacks like Jaire Alexander and Jalen Ramsey. The chatter intensified when Alexander signed with the Baltimore Ravens, with some expecting the Steelers to be contenders for his services. However, recent reports indicate that the Steelers were notably absent from the list of teams pursuing Alexander, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
This absence raises questions about the Steelers’ genuine interest in bolstering their cornerback position. Many believe that if they were indeed looking to make a significant upgrade, they would have actively pursued Alexander, especially given his affordable one-year contract. Instead, the focus has shifted towards Ramsey, a player that many see as a pricier option requiring a trade.
General Manager Omar Khan has indicated that the Steelers’ strategy this offseason has been to conserve draft capital, particularly as they gather picks for the 2026 NFL Draft. With a calculated approach, the Steelers chose not to chase after high-profile free agents that would complicate their compensation picks. For example, acquiring Darius Slay post-release from the Eagles allowed them to sidestep penalties against this formula.
The speculation surrounding cornerback acquisitions might not align with the team’s strategic intent. Joey Porter Jr., who is expected to play a key role in the upcoming season, is unlikely to lose his starting position in what could be a pivotal year for him. Furthermore, investing heavily in another cornerback could stir tension within the roster, especially considering the significant contract implications of signing a player like Slay to mentor rather than play.
While some pundits wonder about a potential trade for Ramsey, it appears the Steelers may be better off allocating their resources toward other crucial positions, such as wide receiver. Fans seeking significant roster changes this offseason may want to temper their expectations, as it seems unlikely the Steelers will make a bold move for Jalen Ramsey.
In reflecting upon this situation, it’s clear that the Steelers’ offseason strategy is more about building for the future rather than splurging on high-profile players this year. Their focus on careful financial management and maximizing future draft capital suggests that they are committed to a long-term plan, which may pay dividends down the road in developing a more robust team.