The Pittsburgh Steelers are aggressively improving their defense this offseason, aiming to keep pace with the Cincinnati Bengals’ powerful passing attack. With the Bengals establishing themselves as a dominant aerial threat, the Steelers recognize the urgency to revamp their defensive roster to better counter such offenses.
Long snapper Christian Kuntz acknowledged this competitive dynamic in a recent podcast, suggesting that Pittsburgh’s defensive moves reflect an effort to match Cincinnati’s overall strength on that side of the ball.
Cincy loaded up on defense. It seems like, obviously, they’re a juggernaut on offense, and I feel like we’re trying to match them on defense, going to get these guys
, the Steelers’ long snapper said. It’s cool, I’m excited. —Christian Kuntz, Steelers long snapper
Significant Personnel Changes Define Steelers’ Defensive Strategy
Since last season concluded, the Steelers have made notable roster moves, trading away players such as Larry Ogunjobi, Montravius Adams, Elandon Roberts, Donte Jackson, and Minkah Fitzpatrick. In their place, Pittsburgh has acquired talents including Derrick Harmon, Yahya Black, Malik Harrison, Darius Slay, Juan Thornhill, and Jalen Ramsey—highlighting an extensive overhaul. Additionally, the team has welcomed the return of Cole Holcomb and added Jack Sawyer to enhance their pass rush capabilities.
The acquisition of Jalen Ramsey, in particular, stands out after trading away Minkah Fitzpatrick. This bold move signals the Steelers’ commitment to fortifying their secondary, along with surprising trades like that of wide receiver George Pickens, and additions such as defensive veteran Darius Slay and Ramsey despite their age.
Kuntz Highlights Ramsey’s Game-Changing Potential for Steelers
Christian Kuntz praised Jalen Ramsey as an impactful defensive player whose presence can significantly alter the course of a game.
Jalen Ramsey, that dude’s a splash play waiting to happen. Any time he’s on the field, he could either stick you, force a fumble, or just run all the way across the field and get a pick
, Kuntz said about his new teammate. —Christian Kuntz, Steelers long snapper
While the Steelers contemplate how best to utilize Ramsey’s talents—whether in the slot or free safety—they clearly expect him to play a prominent role on defense. His addition adds strategic value against the Bengals’ top receivers, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
Building a Defensive Wall Against Cincinnati’s Passing Attack
The Bengals boast an aggressive wide receiving corps and a quick-release passing game led by quarterback Joe Burrow, posing significant challenges. The Steelers aim to disrupt this rhythm through their strengthened secondary and bolstered pass rush.
By acquiring players such as Harmon and Sawyer, Pittsburgh intends to create pressure that forces opponents into predictable, one-dimensional offenses focused on shorter routes, which their defense hopes to contain effectively. Limiting the Bengals’ ability to stretch the field could curtail the impact of their dynamic receivers, requiring them to make plays under tighter coverage.
What This Means for the Steelers-Bengals Rivalry Going Forward
The Steelers’ extensive defensive changes indicate their determination to reclaim dominance within the AFC North and combat the rising threat posed by the Bengals’ offense. This ongoing “arms race” between the teams elevates the stakes in their divisional matchups, promising fiercely contested games ahead.
With Christian Kuntz and his teammates embracing these investments on defense, the Steelers hope their revamped lineup will more effectively counter high-powered passing offenses and adapt to the league’s evolving landscape.