Another sign that philosophies may be changing in Pittsburgh.
Jalen Ramsey was traded from the Miami Dolphins, along with tight end Jonnu Smith and a seventh-round draft pick, for Minkah Fitzpatrick and a fifth.
Last year was only one of two in which Ramsey did not make the Pro Bowl. With him turning 31 mid-season, some think that this is the beginning of the decline.
But does a closer look at his stats last year tell the same story?
Or are tales of Ramsey’s demise being spoken too soon?
Changing of the times
When with the Rams at his peak, Ramsey was the best slot cornerback in the league. He was also one of the very best at playing on the outside.
In addition, his ferocious tackling was a sight to behold in the run game. This was a rarity for cornerbacks in today’s game, especially ones who excel in coverage the way he did.
Since being traded to Miami two years ago, Ramsey has played as an outside corner much more than in the slot. But as he ages, he cannot hold up to the same degree that he has been.
Although Ramsey has not spent significant time at safety since Florida State, there was debate entering the draft as to what position would suit him best.
Where I think he could have value moving forward is if he transitioned to a slot cornerback and, eventually, safety. This would be similar to how Charles Woodson was used in Green Bay near the end of his career.
Playing to his strengths
In Miami, Ramsey allowed a passer rating of 105.9 when playing as an outside corner. This is in comparison to the league average of 92.4
However, when utilised in the slot – where you are less reliant on athleticism – his passer rating allowed plummets to 87.7. This compares to a league average of 104.7.
With the signing of Darius Slay to play the opposite outside corner slot to Joey Porter Jr, the slot cornerback spot should be clear for Ramsey to make his own.
Given that the Steelers have played man coverage at the sixth-highest rate in the league over that timeframe, it is easy to see where Ramsey could come in and immediately be a significant contributor to the defense.
