Steelers Make Big Change in CB Room

PITTSBURGH — The Steelers are set to give Desmond King a more significant role against the Ravens. Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin noted that King is now up to speed and moving up on the depth chart.

How much will he split with Chandon Sullivan and others? That remains to be seen, but King will likely play defensive snaps for the first time all season.

“I think he’s getting more comfortable in our system and I think that line on the depth chart reflects the fact that he’s had some growth here with us and learning our system,” Austin said. “And he’s probably ready to go. What his role will be on Sunday, I’m not going to disclose, it could be small, could be large, but it’s all about how the game unfolds.”

Sullivan has started the season’s first four games but has recorded just six tackles and a pass deflection. He hasn’t made any splash plays. The Steelers’ secondary overall has misplayed this season, as they rank 32nd in yards per completion allowed. They need more from their secondary, and King could provide a spark.

King started 25 games between the 2021 and 2022 seasons in Houston, and seemed poised to start again before his unexpected release before the start of the 2023 season. Due to his late arrival, he was inactive for the first two games. He debuted against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 3 but didn’t play any defensive snaps. He didn’t play any defensive snaps on Sunday against on Houston, either.

For the Steelers, their slot cornerback is a vital part of their run defense. That guy has to blitz, tackle, and be fearless when defending the edge. Desmond King has those qualities on his tape throughout his career.

Pittsburgh has allowed 72 percent of their rushing yards allowed to the perimeter. The Texans hurt them badly by exploiting their defensive backs in space. It’s pretty simple for the Steelers. King is a massive upgrade to their run defense. It is not the only fix, but King gives them more flexibility at that spot than Sullivan does on run-downs.