Jalen Ramsey on Steelers’ Defense: ‘We’re a Defense That Rises Together—That’s How We’ll Dominate This Season’
Jalen Ramsey has made a bold statement since joining the Pittsburgh Steelers, making it clear that he didn’t come to just be another piece in the defensive puzzle—he came to lead and build something special. As one of the NFL’s premier cornerbacks, Ramsey’s arrival to Pittsburgh was a game-changer for the Steelers’ defense, and he is already setting high expectations for the unit as they push forward in the 2025 season.
“This isn’t just about me—it’s about the entire unit. I came to Pittsburgh to help build something special. We’re a defense that rises together, and that’s how we’ll dominate this season,” Ramsey said, laying down the challenge for his new team and signaling the kind of leadership the Steelers’ defense can expect.
Ramsey’s arrival has energized a Steelers defense that has already been one of the league’s most formidable in recent years. However, the addition of the six-time Pro Bowler takes the defensive unit to a new level, bringing an unmatched level of intensity, experience, and a winning mentality. He’s not only focused on his own performance but on elevating every player around him.
The Steelers' defense has been known for its physicality, discipline, and ability to turn the ball over. But with Ramsey leading the charge, it’s clear that the focus this season will be on cohesion and unity. Ramsey’s message of a defense “rising together” speaks to his belief in the power of teamwork and shared responsibility. Every player is expected to contribute and be held accountable for their role in the defense’s success.
“We’ve got a lot of talent here,” Ramsey continued. “But talent alone doesn’t win games. It’s about trust, it’s about playing for each other. We need to make sure that every guy in that locker room is on the same page, executing, and putting the team first.”
It’s this mentality that has made Ramsey one of the most respected cornerbacks in the league. His ability to shut down wide receivers and make game-changing plays on the field is well-known, but his leadership off the field is equally impressive. As a veteran in the locker room, he understands the importance of building a strong, unified team, and he’s already having an impact on the younger players.
The Steelers’ defense is filled with playmakers like T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Cam Heyward, but Ramsey’s presence adds an extra layer of leadership and skill to an already talented group. The Steelers are looking to build on their strong defensive foundation and take their game to the next level with Ramsey guiding the way.
As the season progresses, the Steelers will be relying on their defense to set the tone for their playoff aspirations. With Ramsey at the helm, they have the potential to be even more dominant than before. His focus on collective success over individual achievement is exactly what the team needs to take them all the way to the Super Bowl.
In the end, Ramsey’s vision is clear: a defense that rises together, working as one to dominate the NFL. As the Steelers continue to grow and develop throughout the season, Ramsey’s leadership will be instrumental in ensuring that they don’t just meet expectations—they exceed them.
Yankees Urged to Sign Longtime AL East Catcher to Pair With Austin Wells
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Yankees linked to signing veteran catcher to pair with Austin Wells.
The New York Yankees could look to add some catching help this offseason.
New York’s catching duo is Austin Wells and Ben Rice, but Rice could be the long-term answer at first base. If Rice is indeed going to play at first, the Yankees will need to add another veteran.
Yankees insider Pete Caldera of NorthJersey.com links New York to signing Danny Jansen of the Milwaukee Brewers. Jansen is a long-time member of the AL East with the Toronto Blue Jays, Boston Red Sox, and Tampa Bay Rays.
“The veteran, right-handed hitting catcher is expected to be a free agent,” Caldera wrote. “Traded by the Tampa Bay Rays to the Milwaukee Brewers at the July 31 MLB deadline, Jansen earned $8.5 million in 2025 and has a $12 million mutual option for 2026. Jansen, 30, has played with three AL East teams, mostly with Toronto, and the Yankees should be seeking a solid catching complement to the lefty-hitting Austin Wells.”
The option on Jansen is unlikely to be picked up, and the veteran will be one of the top catchers available. He’s a good hitter who’s also known for his defense and can split catching duties with Wells.
Last season, between the Rays and Brewers, Jansen hit .215 with 14 home runs and 36 RBIs. His career high is 17 home runs and 53 RBIs, which he did with the Blue Jays in 2023 in just 86 games.
Yankees Tried Rice at Catcher
Although New York has Wells and Rice under contract, adding a catcher makes a ton of sense.
With Paul Goldschmidt set to be a free agent, the path is open for Rice to be the starting first baseman. If that is the case, adding a catcher is a must.
Yet, last season, Yankees manager Aaron Boone did try Rice at catcher, who had mixed results. But it was a play to get his bat into the lineup. The Athletic’s Yankees reporter Chris Kirschner said that was the reason why Rice played catcher.
“There are two ways the Yankees can maximize Rice’s playing time. Start him at first base when there’s a right-handed pitcher on the mound, or increase his starts behind the plate to supplant the struggling Austin Wells,” Kirschner wrote. “As Wells’ offensive woes continue to pile up, the latter option is looking increasingly compelling.”
“At the beginning of the season, when Rice was mainly getting at-bats as the Yankees’ designated hitter and first baseman, catching coordinator Tanner Swanson said he believed Rice could start for at least a third of MLB teams. Behind the scenes, the Yankees were having Rice catch bullpens and slowly working him into lopsided games behind the plate. He’s now showing he could handle a bigger workload.”
So, with Goldschmidt likely leaving, Rice now has the path to be at first, leaving the backup catcher role open.
What Will Jansen Earn in Free Agency?
Jansen has a $12 million mutual option with the Brewers, which will likely be declined.
The veteran catcher should expect to earn around $8.5 million, which he signed for in 2025 with the Rays.
Jansen isn’t a true starting catcher, as he likely can start between 80-100 games and would be part of a tandem, which would bring his price down.
Yet, with the Yankees, he’s a perfect fit for them. Spotrac has his market value at $7.2 million, which seems on the lower end. Instead, he should get close to $8 million in free agency.
Jansen has appeared in 599 career games over eight seasons in the MLB.
