The Steelers' training camp has come to a close, but Gerry Dulac, an expert analyst, has one pressing concern about the team's performance: the lack of visibility into their starting secondary. This concern is particularly significant given the team's heavy reliance on this unit this year.
Dulac highlights the absence of key players like Jalen Ramsey and Joey Porter Jr., who are still on the PUP list, and DeShon Elliott, who has only recently begun full participation. Patrick Graham's reassurance that the team's absence of key players doesn't matter is noted, but Dulac argues that seeing the players in action is crucial. He emphasizes the importance of observing the starters, especially with the addition of Jaquan Brisker at safety.
The analyst points out that the Steelers' secondary has been a source of uncertainty, with limited participation from key players. Jamel Dean, the team's big free agent acquisition, was limited in the spring, and Porter's absence has been notable. Dulac mentions the limited availability of Brisker and the recent absence of Elliott, which has impacted the team's ability to assess their secondary's performance.
Instead, the team has relied on players like Asante Samuel Jr., who has performed well in training camp and the first preseason game. However, Dulac stresses the importance of seeing the starters in action, even if it means relying on less experienced players like Robert Spears-Jennings, who may not make the 53-man roster. The analyst also mentions the limited participation of Brandin Echols and the increased involvement of Devan Boykin.
Dulac's concern stems from the team's new staff and schemes, particularly at the back end. He suggests that the lack of practice time with the starting players might be disappointing for the team, even if it's not yet troublesome. The analyst emphasizes the need for the linebackers to understand the safety's role and vice versa, highlighting the importance of collective practice time for the entire defense.
In conclusion, Dulac's analysis underscores the significance of observing the starting secondary during training camp, especially given the team's heavy reliance on this unit. His commentary highlights the challenges of assessing the team's performance without the key players in action, and he emphasizes the need for a comprehensive evaluation of the defense's overall performance.
