Steelers Defense Done For After Devastating Injury

Secondary Struggles

The Steelers defense has been susceptible to big plays all season long, and the absence of Elliott only exacerbates that issue. While Elliott has never been lauded for his pass coverage, he’s been a pass-stopper so far this season.

When targeted, quarterbacks aren’t guaranteed to connect. He’s been targeted in pass coverage 18 times, with quarterbacks completing 13 of those attempts, or 72.2% with one pass breakup and one interception.

His absence was immediately felt as the Steelers tried to stifle their latest competition’s passing attack. The Steelers had no answer for Packers tight end Tucker Kraft as he carved up the defense for two touchdowns and over 140 receiving yards. The Packers fed Kraft continuously, and it was Elliott’s injury replacement, Chuck Clark, who was beat cleanly in a one-on-one matchup for his second score of the game.

Logistics Director

Elliott is the heartbeat of the Steelers defense. His physicality and technical skill set are tone-setters for his teammates, but how he fuels the group goes beyond just being an uber-talented safety.

Elliott’s understanding of the Steelers’ defensive structure and systems is unmatched. He is a and he knows where every body is supposed to be every single play. Just watch him pre-snap when he returns, and you’ll see how much of the defense’s communication is facilitated by Elliott.

And now, that duty will fall even more on middle linebacker Patrick Queen. He’s already the one who wears the green dot and calls plays, but now he will be further responsible with monitoring coverages and barking out orders at the line of scrimmage.

The Steelers better hope that they don’t have to wait long for Elliott’s return. He is the heart and soul of their defense, and they need him playing in order to become the defense they envision themselves to be.