Even early into this season, no one would have expected the Pittsburgh Steelers to go on a three-game winning streak to start their campaign. As it stands, this would be impossible if the team didn’t land DeShon Elliott in free agency this year.
The Steelers have been gaining attention for their savvy acquisition of Elliott, praised as one of the top free-agent steals early in the 2024 NFL season. This is due to the safety’s impactful performance since joining the team, noting his ability to enhance the team’s already formidable defense.
Elliott, who previously played for the Miami Dolphins, boasts an impressive track record, including three seasons with over 80 tackles. His versatility has allowed the Steelers to deploy him effectively, contributing to their defensive strategy. In just two weeks, he has made 13 tackles, recorded an interception, and allowed only a single eight-yard reception on six targets. This kind of performance has made him a valuable asset alongside star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, allowing the latter to take more risks and roam freely on the field.
The financial aspect of Elliott’s signing is equally impressive; he joined the Steelers for a modest $6 million over two years, with only $1.5 million guaranteed. This makes him an exceptional value for a player of his caliber, reinforcing the Steelers’ reputation for making astute personnel decisions.
NFL Analysis Names DeShon Elliott as Pittsburgh Steelers’ Big Steal in Free Agency
Much like Philadelphia Eagles’ Zack Baun and Los Angeles Chargers’ Kristian Fulton, Bleacher Report’s David Kenyon praised the Steelers for bagging Elliott in free agency. This can be seen in his latest NFL analysis for Week 3.
Most recently with the Miami Dolphins, safety DeShon Elliott is plenty experienced with three 80-tackle seasons. Pittsburgh has taken his versatility and deployed Elliott in a very effective manner.
While allowing a single eight-yard reception on six targets, he’s made 13 tackles and snagged an interception.
“He’s done a really nice job,” Tomlin said of the veteran who signed a two-year, $6 million agreement. “He’s made quite a few plays, not to mention splash plays, interceptions, tackles for losses on third down-and-1—those weighty plays that shape football games.”
Elliott looks like an ideal complement to allow playmaker Minkah Fitzpatrick to roam freely on the back end of the defense,” Kenyon wrote.
Pro Football Focus has also recognized Elliott’s contributions, ranking him among the top five safeties in the league based on his consistent performance in run defense, pass coverage, and tackling. Remarkably, opposing quarterbacks have a passer rating of 0.0 when targeting him, thanks to his precise positioning and ability to disrupt plays.
As the Steelers prepare for the upcoming games, Elliott’s integration into the defense is proving to be a game-changer, solidifying their status as a formidable team in the league. His early success underscores the effectiveness of the Steelers’ front office in identifying and acquiring talent.
