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Beat Writer ‘Not A Fan’ Of How Steelers Using DeShon Elliott: ‘Taking Away What Makes Him Special’

While DeShon Elliott returned to the field on Sunday, he did so on a limited basis—and in a compromised role, Mike DeFabo argues. The Steelers starter played 19 snaps, or 33 percent of the total, with rookie Robert Spears-Jennings and…

By Matthew Marczi · Steelers Depot

Published: Thursday, 29 October 2026 at 12:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Beat writer Mike DeFabo argued the Steelers are neutralizing DeShon Elliott's strengths by deploying him as a post-safety.
Elliott played 19 snaps against the Saints in his return from an injury that sidelined him for six games.
DeFabo noted that Elliott's near Pro Bowl form in 2024 relied heavily on playing near the line of scrimmage.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Beat writer Mike DeFabo expressed criticism over the Pittsburgh Steelers' deployment of safety DeShon Elliott during his return against the New Orleans Saints. Speaking on The Yinziders podcast, DeFabo argued that using Elliott primarily as a post-safety in center field diminishes his primary strengths, noting that Elliott excels closer to the line of scrimmage in run defense and blitz situations.

Elliott played 19 defensive snaps in his season debut after missing the opening six games due to injury rehab. While Elliott noted he is comfortable accepting any role, Steelers Depot writer Matthew Marczi highlights questions regarding whether defensive coordinator Patrick Graham will shift Elliott closer to the box in upcoming games.

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