An annual rite of passage… Our Training Camp Previews for the Pittsburgh Steelers. The concept here is pretty straightforward; we’ll take a look at each position. Who is vying for a place on the 53-man roster and how will that happen? Obviously there are some spots much each easier to break down than others but we’ll do our best to cover it all. Today we cover the Safeties.
DeShon Elliott, 8th Season
People often throw around the phrase “He’s a Steeler” probably too much but when DeShon Elliott arrived last year, he lived up to that billing. Elliott was one of the defense’s most consistent performers and best tacklers. It was no surprise that the team decided to keep him around with a new deal earlier this summer. I would argue that there are few other defenders as important as he is right now.
Miles Killabrew, 10th Season
The decision to acquire Miles Killabrew a few seasons ago has proven to be a smart one. He’s been the team’s most reliable Special Teams player and has the Pro Bowls to show for it. He blocks, he tackles, he blocks punts… He does it all. As a safety, Killabrew is reliable and knows what his responsibilities are. He’s capable of filling in for a few plays and even a start but as a long-term starter, he’s limited.
Juan Thornhill, 7th Season
When you can get a guy with the experience of Juan Thornhill, a two-time Super Bowl Champion, you have to make that acquisition. Then again, one has to wonder why a guy like this is available. In his first four seasons in Kansas City, he rarely missed a game and had eight interceptions while playing a mix of free and strong safety. Once he got to Cleveland, Thornhill missed 12 games (six in each year) during his two seasons there and had no interceptions.
There are those that believe he often failed to play hard or give 100% and there are those that believe he just struggled with the culture in Cleveland. These things can all be true or false. What I can say is that I would be stunned if the Steelers believe he is the replacement for Minkah Fitzpatrick. I see Thornhill at this point in his career more of an ‘in the box’ guy versus a center field type of player. Make no mistake, I think Thornhill could be a huge addition to the team if we get the Chiefs version of him.
Sebastian Castro, Rookie
There are always a few sneaky-good undrafted free agent signings (Jaylen Warren was one) and if I had to pick from this group it’s Sebastian Castro. He was originally thought of in the pre-draft process as a mid-to-late round pick but when he wasn’t drafted the Steelers scooped him up immediately. In the age of Covid-19, Castro is one of those “six-year” guys so he’s already 25 years old and has plenty of experience. He played some outside backer before moving to more of a strong safety or in the box safety his final two season for the Hawkeyes.
If I had to guess why he wasn’t drafted it was because of his overall “average” athleticism and struggles to cover in man-to-man. That said, Castro reminds me of one of those guys who is “just a football player.” He plays with great energy and enthusiasm and will not back down from anyone. Don’t be surprised if he makes some splash plays during Camp and in the Preseason.
Quindell Johnson, 2nd Season
He’s already spent time with the Rams, Niners, Bears and Steelers in just two seasons. Johnson has seen game action nine times. He has solid size and above average athletic features. He’s been able to play deep or in the slot against bigger receivers and tight ends. Quick and speedy receivers appear to be his weakest link. He reminds me of the type of player who is always around right up to the end but just doesn’t get that coveted roster spot.
How It Shakes Out
Pencil in Elliott, Killabrew and Thornhill. What I’m uncertain about is how they will view Jalen Ramsey. Will he be listed as a Safety? If so, this could be the four they keep. If they list him as a Cornerback then both Johnson and Castro have chances. To start out, go with Johnson but don’t be surprised to see a current free agent (Justin Simmons or Julian Blackmon perhaps) signed in the near future.
