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DeShon Elliott Could Be On Pitch Count In Return to Steelers’ Defense
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- DeShon Elliott Could Be On Pitch Count In Return to Steelers’ Defense
The Pittsburgh Steelers saw DeShon Elliott practice in full on Wednesday , and the team released Rayshawn Jenkins that same day. By all indications, Elliott appears to be on track to make his return Sunday morning when the Steelers face the New Orleans Saints in Paris . The biggest question is how much playing time Elliott will receive once the team activates him. Although he could make a significant impact once he gets back into a rhythm, don't expect him to play 100% of the defensive snaps immediately. At least, that seemed to be the message defensive coordinator Patrick Graham hinted at this week.
Graham spoke to the media and offered some insight into how the Steelers might approach Elliott's return. While the situation remains fluid, it could take some time before Elliott resumes his full workload.
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"We'll see what happens this week, but I think the group is really coming together. It will be interesting to see how that goes down in terms of the chemistry and how it flows together. Guys have all stepped up in their role. You're seeing young players grow in that role. You're seeing other guys take on more. So, it will be interesting to see. We'll just let the competition play out. Let everything happen organically, as people say now, and let it play out. But, looking forward to it." Graham said.
Easing Elliott Back Into the Lineup Isn't Surprising
Sep 28, 2025; Dublin, Ireland; Pittsburgh Steelers safety Deshon Elliott (25) reacts after an interception on a pass thrown by Minnesota Vikings quarterback Carson Wentz (11) during the second quarter during an NFL International Series game at Croke Park. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Dating back to 2025, Elliott hasn't seen much regular-season action. As a result, he hasn't had much opportunity to establish chemistry with the Steelers' current starters, including Jalen Ramsey and Asante Samuel Jr. Ramsey has emphasized the importance of building chemistry through live reps on the field. Given Elliott's limited action, the Steelers could place him on a snap count if he returns in Week 7.
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It's also worth noting that this is an entirely different defense. Since Week 1, Graham has taken a noticeably different approach to deploying his personnel. From player usage and rotations to the overall scheme, Elliott will enter a new defensive system that he'll need to learn on the fly. Fortunately, he's an experienced veteran who has played in different defensive systems and should be capable of making the adjustment.
Oct 12, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers safety Deshon Elliott (25) reacts as he takes the field against the Cleveland Browns at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Once Elliott settles into the defense, he could become a welcome addition. He proved his value as a run defender in 2024 and also showed he could hold his own in coverage against tight ends. His biggest challenges will be learning the nuances of Graham's defense on the field and staying healthy.
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Will Elliott immediately elevate the Steelers' defense, or will he need time to regain his footing before returning to a full workload?
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This story was originally published by Athlon on Oct 22, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
