The Other Steelers Snap Count Problem That Needs Calling Out

Steelers Juan ThornhillThe talk of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ last game was the defense. How much it struggled and the curious decision-making that played a role in that. Nick Herbig’s low snap count, left off the field in crucial situations as Joe Flacco led the game-winning drive. Juan Thornhill’s lack of playing time won’t draw near as much criticism. But the personnel choices are just as curious, even if they won’t elicit the think-pieces Herbig’s sideline action did.

Pittsburgh’s starting free safety once Minkah Fitzpatrick was traded in late June, Thornhill hardly saw the field against the Cincinnati Bengals. He picked up just 20 total snaps, 26.3 percent of the defensive total. Instead,…