Protecting the end zone is one of the NFL’s most unforgiving jobs. Coaches are paid big money to develop complex schemes, mask weaknesses, and keep points off the board. It’s thankless work at times, but for teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, it’s part of a proud legacy built on defense.
That’s what makes the start of the 2025 season so disappointing — and it’s why defensive coordinator Teryl Austin isn’t pulling any punches.
Let’s be honest: the Steelers defense has underperformed. Through two games, they’ve allowed consecutive 100-yard rushers, over 200 passing yards per game, and a staggering 31.