Steelers Defense Ahead of Schedule

The Pittsburgh Steelers defensive backfield has plenty of new names, but they're already clicking.

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers revamped their defensive backfield during the offseason, adding three veterans and two rookies, all expected to make an impact on the group. 

With new names like Patrick Peterson, Joey Porter Jr., Cory Trice, Chandon Sullivan, and others joining the cornerback room, and Keanu Neal replacing Terrell Edmunds at safety, the Steelers expected a grace period for everyone to familiarize themselves with the group. 

That's gone swimmingly. In fact, they're "ahead of the game," according to safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. 

"We're ahead of where I thought we would be," Fitzpatrick said. "There are a lot of new faces in the secondary, a lot of new faces on the defense. When you have new faces, there is a lot to learn. I think because a lot of the new faces we brought in are experienced players, guys that played high level football, that is why I think we are head of where I thought we would be.

Fitzpatrick said the veterans in the secondary all communicated before OTAs and minicamp that everyone should be in attendance by a certain date. Therefore, they would have time to adjust before they broke off for the summer and returned for training camp.

"A lot of the guys that we brought in have a lot of experience. A lot of the guys we brought in are ballhawks," Fitzpatrick said. "Now it's just finding that chemistry. Learning how each other communicates. Learning how each other sees the game. I think we are doing a really good job.

"I think we are ahead of the game. We are definitely ahead of where I thought we would be, which is exciting. So just keep working and continue it into Latrobe."

The roles of the new players are still unknown, but everyone is seemingly open to whatever is best for the group. Peterson is moving around, Neal is getting accommodated to his new team, and the rookies are making plays at a new level. 

Pittsburgh's defense still has work to do, but for a new group in the backfield, they feel like it's been a smooth transition.

"think we have a perfect balance of vets and younger guys," Fitzpatrick said. "I think when you have that combination, the vets that set the standard and the young guys that bring the energy, the juice every day. It's a great combination and I think we are ahead of where I thought we would be."

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