The Pittsburgh Steelers boasted one of the best defenses in the NFL in 2019 and members of the defense believe they can be even better in 2020. In an interview for NFL Network's “NFL at Home” series, Joe Haden didn't hold back on his expectations for the defense.
“I expect in 2020 for our defense to be the best defense in the league,” Haden said.
Just a season ago, the Steelers finished with the No. 5 ranked defense in terms of yards allowed. On the other hand, they tied for the No. 5 scoring defense, allowing just 18.9 points per game.
Early in the season, Pittsburgh was able to acquire Minkah Fitzpatrick in exchange for their first-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. As a result of the addition of Fitzpatrick, the Steelers saw their defense reach elite status. Above all, the acquisition of Fitzpatrick allowed Pittsburgh to finish No. 1 in turnovers forced.
Haden, who is entering his fourth season with the Steelers, understands the talent that the defense has. Still, for Pittsburgh to submit the No. 1 defense in 2020, they'll need to drastically improve against the run.
Whilst having the No. 3 pass defense in 2019, the Steelers had the No. 14 ranked run defense. Even though they lost Javon Hargrave in free agency, Pittsburgh believes it can improve versus the run next season.
It would be stupendous if the Steelers could repeat the success they had on the defensive side of the ball. However, Haden believes Pittsburgh's current group on defense can achieve something the franchise hasn't done since 2012.
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