Pittsburgh’s defense enters a window of heightened expectation. Mike Tomlin’s bold optimism underscores a unit rebuilt to stop the run and sharpen back-end communication after a troublesome finish to 2024. The influx includes Darius Slay, Jalen Ramsey, Juan Thornhill, Chuck Clark and Brandin Echols, joining a defensive core led by T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward with Patrick Queen in the mix. Ramsey’s role as a multifaceted striker at free safety has already yielded an early highlight, and Metcalf’s praise of the defense adds a level of respect from a firsthand rival. Aging stars on the Steelers, including Heyward at 36, add a caveat about longevity, even as Harmon, Black and Sawyer push to prove themselves. Tomlin’s history of dominant defenses, from his Buccaneers stint to Pittsburgh’s early-season excellence, provides a blueprint, but skepticism remains about the 30-plus group’s ability to sustain a historic run. The potential payoff is a defense that could redefine Pittsburgh’s ceiling, possibly even sparking a long-awaited playoff breakthrough if the scheme and communication click under pressure.

Ramsey and Slay sidelined at Steelers camp thrusts Cameron McCutchen, Kyler McMichael and Daryl Porter Jr. into extended reps, intensifying the cornerback depth battle in Pittsburgh. With the two stars out, the Steelers’ practice reps tilt toward the youngsters, creating clearer on-field tests and more favorable matchups for opposing offenses during scrimmages. Pittsburgh shifts focus to joint practices with Tampa Bay before a weekend preseason game, meaning big-picture CB development and depth chart clarity will come fast. Fantasy-minded observers should monitor how reps are divvied and which young corners seize the momentum as camp closes.

The Pittsburgh Steelers' head coach, Mike Tomlin, has expressed significant excitement about the team's cornerback lineup as training camp approaches. The duo of Darius Slay and Levi Wallace joins established star Minkah Fitzpatrick, forming a formidable trio that could reshape the defense. Slay's proven track record complements Wallace's emerging play, and both are expected to elevate the secondary's performance in the upcoming season. The integration of these players aims to enhance the Steelers' competitiveness within the league as they strive for a deeper playoff run.

As training camp kicks off, the Philadelphia Eagles have emerged as a focal point for NFL discussions, securing the top spot in several pre-season power rankings. The key return of offensive stars positions them favorably, despite some significant defensive losses, including Darius Slay Jr. and C.J. Gardner-Johnson. The offense is led by Jalen Hurts, who faces pressure to replicate last season's success. Experts express mixed opinions on whether he can maintain or exceed his impressive performance from the previous year.

ESPN has pegged the Eagles as the second-best projected starting lineup, with their offensive tackles, Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson, highlighted as standout strengths. However, concerns linger about their edge rusher position. Meanwhile, AI predictions suggest the Eagles will clinch the NFC East, projecting a 13-4 record by season's end, though it doubts their ability to repeat as Super Bowl champions. As the season approaches, the Eagles' combination of offensive prowess and defensive adjustments will be pivotal.