Steelers’ Ryan Watts Might Have A Brutal Time Playing Cornerback But There’s A Solution

The Pittsburgh Steelers were almost guaranteed to take a cornerback at some point during this year's NFL draft, which became a reality once they selected Texas product Ryan Watts in the sixth round with their last pick. There was some notion floating that the Steelers would take one earlier in the draft, possibly in the first two or three rounds. Although, Pittsburgh seemed satisfied with their current starters at corner and decided to complete the offense. Watts future with Pittsburgh, however, may be at a different spot other than cornerback. 

The Steelers currently have two solidified starters at cornerback with Joey Porter Jr. and Donte Jackson. As far as the rest go, for now, the Steelers are counting on guys like Watts, Darius Rush, and Cory Trice Jr. to step up and take some playing time. Watts, 6' 3" and 208 pounds, was an original Ohio State product for two years before his transfer to Texas. Watts spent the entirety of his college career playing corner, but many analysts and insiders believe that he will flourish most at safety.

Steelers' insider Brian Batko with the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reminded Steeler Nation of this during a segment that discussed if either of those three guys could win a starting job. Batko wasn't too high on the chances of Watts becoming a starter at cornerback for the Steelers, and explained why. 

"We'll see if he pans out. I've also seen some NFL draft gurus suggest maybe a move to safety would make more sense for him because of lack of lateral quickness. I mean hey, it's worth a shot on a guy with those testing numbers at his size and you've got to have some pedigree to get recruited by Ohio State and then transfer to Texas."

As a former All-Big 12 Honorable Mention, Watts' biggest strength would be similar to his teammate Porter Jr.'s, which is his size and rare length. Unfortunately, according to most analysts, Watts isn't fast or quick enough to be able to play cornerback at a high level in the NFL. Except, with the Steelers lacking depth and still searching for another solid corner, don't rule out Pittsburgh giving Watts a shot. 

If Watts gets moved to safety, he'll be joining a group with Minkah Fitzpatrick, DeShon Elliott, Damontae Kazee, Trenton Thompson, and Miles Killebrew. It would be tough earning playing time above these players, but is an exceptional group to learn from. 

Could The Steelers Still Sign Another Cornerback?

As mentioned previously, the only proven corners on the roster are Porter Jr. and Jackson. In today's league where offenses have developed advanced passing schemes, two solid corners is not going to cut it. For this reason, most suspected that Pittsburgh would take a corner earlier on in the draft. Now, Steelers' fans might expect a free agent signing at some point. As we sit here today, though, who would still be on the market? 

The best cornerbacks on the free agent market currently include Stephon Gilmore, Xavien Howard, and JC Jackson. All are proven and veteran corners that have played at a high level, and might not cost too much. If the Steelers are looking for an even cheaper deal and a more familiar face, a reunion with Patrick Peterson is always on the table. A Peterson reunion has been talked about for weeks now, although it wouldn't be ideal. Peterson is also a bit slow at corner at this point in his career.

As he was moved to safety at the end of the 2023 season, he seemed more comfortable there. However, Peterson revealed that he would not return to Pittsburgh to play safety. The Steelers will have to consider all options as they head towards training camp, but a move at corner may not happen until later on.