Pittsburgh Steelers’ key addition on the defensive side of the ball tabbed as one of the best moves of the offseason by ESPN
The Pittsburgh Steelers had a very busy offseason in 2026, adding a ton of new faces and talent to the roster. But what was the best and or most valuable move? ESPN makes its pick.
When you think back to free agency in March, the Pittsburgh Steelers had one of the more active periods in the league. In back-to-back years, they started things off with a bang when they traded for a wide receiver, this time being Michael Pittman Jr.
They would go on to sign potential starters like Rico Dowdle, Brock Hoffman, and Jaquan Brisker, among others. The Steelers then used 10 selections in the 2026 NFL Draft to try to find pieces that will make up the future of the roster. Oh, and most recently, they found their starting quarterback after Aaron Rodgers announced that he would return for his final NFL season. But which move was the best? ESPN has a clear favorite.
Jamel Dean signing named best offseason move for the Steelers
“I’m on the record suggesting that the Steelers need to take the end of the Mike Tomlin era as a sign that it’s time to rebuild around their young stars, but ownership has made it very clear that the team isn’t heading in that direction. Let’s leave their plan aside for a minute and judge how well they executed if their goal is to contend in 2026.”
“The Steelers are only really on the hook for one year and $13.5 million, leaving them with plenty of flexibility if Dean does take a step back in his age-30 season. Between their devastating trio of pass rushers on the edge and the combination of Dean and Joey Porter Jr. on the outside, new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham should have everything he needs to shut down opposing passing games in 2026.” – Bill Barnwell, ESPN
Jamel Dean Facts
- From Cocoa, Florida.
- Attended Auburn.
- Won a Super Bowl in Tampa.
Why the Jamel Dean signing makes so much sense
You rarely have the chance to sign a true lockdown corner, who is coming off a career year, and get him on a team-friendly deal. I would be shocked if Dean didn’t play out the life of his new contract because that’s just how the Steelers do business, but even if 2026 is a disaster, the Steelers have an out.
Beyond the numbers, however, the Steelers finally have two viable corners on the perimeter of their defense. Dean fits the mold as a long, physical corner who can play man coverage and use his traits at the line of scrimmage. I expect the Steelers to be happy with what they receive from Dean.