The Steelers and Buccaneers staged a joint practice ahead of a weekend preseason game, and Brandin Echols gave a rare, direct read on how the defense started—flat and short on energy, with a clear plan to come out stronger. The candid assessment underscores the Steelers’ emphasis on energy and cohesion as they gauge depth for the coming season.

From a fantasy lens, the message is a reminder to monitor how Pittsburgh’s secondary and front seven respond in upcoming preseason action. If the defense answers the call with improved tempo and communication, the Steelers’ defensive options could stabilize, while any uptick in offensive efficiency from TB could shift game scripts in the shortest weeks of the preseason.