The Pittsburgh Steelers made an aggressive move this offseason by trading away their star wide receiver, Diontae Johnson, to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for cornerback Donte Jackson. This trade has sparked scrutiny from media pundits, with some believing it was a poor decision that left a void in Pittsburgh's wide receiver room, while others see it as a smart move to bolster their cornerback position and part ways with a player who often caused internal issues.
Despite the mixed reactions from the media, Pittsburgh was thrilled to make this trade. They had been eyeing Jackson for several seasons and seized the opportunity when it arose. Jackson joins a loaded Steelers defense that has been a strong point for the team while the offense has struggled. Eager to start this new chapter, Jackson is excited about the opportunity in Pittsburgh.
Many Pittsburgh fans are curious about Jackson's capabilities. Over his six-year NFL career with the Panthers, Jackson has accumulated 14 interceptions, 303 combined tackles, and 46 passes defensed. According to Pro Football Focus, a popular data website dedicated to providing unique football metrics, Jackson was among the elite cornerbacks in man coverage during the 2023 season, earning a grade of 81.4.
The list was filled with standout cornerbacks such as Ahmad "Sauce" Gardner, Tariq Woolen, Jamel Dean, Trent McDuffie, and Jackson. Many of these names, including Gardner, are among the best cornerbacks in the league. Jackson being in such elite company gives Pittsburgh fans reason to be optimistic about his outlook for the 2024 season.
Steelers' Secondary Should Be In Good Hands In 2024
Jackson joins an elite defense in Pittsburgh. The Steelers' cornerback room had been a major subject of discussion this offseason. They know what they have with the young cornerback Joey Porter Jr. In his rookie season, Porter talked a big game and backed it up. He often shadowed and shut down the opposing team's best wide receiver. He was fearless and made his fair share of rookie mistakes. However, Steelers fans are thrilled about his potential. Porter appears to be a home run draft pick with a very bright future in Pittsburgh.
There was some concern from fans and pundits about who would play the nickelback position. Porter and Jackson can line up on both sides. Then Pittsburgh made a surprising move by bringing back Cam Sutton to the team. Sutton rejoined the Steelers after previously leaving for the Detroit Lions in free agency. He was released by the Lions after legal issues arose, and a warrant was issued for his arrest in an alleged domestic abuse case. The Lions quickly cut ties with him.
The Steelers know Sutton better than any other organization, having spent most of his career with Pittsburgh. They had a trusted relationship with him and did their homework. They felt comfortable enough to bring Sutton back to Pittsburgh. Sutton, Jackson, and Porter are set to anchor the secondary in the upcoming season. Steelers fans are thrilled about their secondary.
Of course, Sutton could face punishment from the NFL for his legal issues. No one truly knows what may happen in that regard. But on paper, as a football team, adding Sutton is a big win for Pittsburgh. The grade from PFF showing Jackson's dominance in man coverage excites Steelers fans about his potential in 2024. The Steelers' defense should be among the best in the league.
