Steelers Activate Star CB From PUP List

His return is the boost the Pittsburgh Steelers defense needed to finish their preseason.

Nov 2, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Jalen Ramsey (5) enters the field before the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers are getting a huge boost as they prepare for their final preseason game. The Steelers will take on the Buffalo Bills to close out their preseason schedule, but the defense can already look forward to the regular season.

The Steelers will get one of their star defenders back soon. Head coach Mike McCarthy addressed the media ahead of a recent practice, and shared the update that Jalen Ramsey is being activated off of the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) List. Ramsey previously suffered a knee injury earlier in the offseason, and missed the entirety of training camp and the preseason up until this point.

With Ramsey coming off of the PUP List, that also means that the veteran defensive back will return to practice. The timing of his return is perfect as well, as McCarthy clarified that there will be multiple. padded practices ahead of their contest against the Bills. His exact timeline to return to game action is not yet known, and it's unlikely that he suits up for the final preseason game. Regardless, this is a huge step for Ramsey and the Steelers.

What This Means for Steelers

Ramsey's return is the boost the defense needed to finish their preseason. Without him, the team had been utilizing Brandin Echols as the primary slot corner, but an injury giving second-year undrafted free agent Doneiko Slaughter significant snaps with the first-team. The experience was huge for Slaughter, but there's no denying how much more impactful Ramsey is in the slot and the open field.

Ramsey also provides a significant level of leadership, both on the field and in the locker room. He's a Super Bowl winner and multiple-time All-Pro cornerback. His experience and wisdom is paramount for a Steelers defense desperate to reach the next level.

Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Jalen Ramsey (5) celebrates 29-24 against Detroit Lions at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

What Steelers Should Expect From Ramsey

While the Pro Bowl is no longer the undisputed indicator of success it once was, people are quick to dismiss that Jalen Ramsey once again made the all-star fesitivities in his first campaign with the Steelers. He managed to perform well despite a flawed defensive structure, a coaching staff on the way out and switching positions midway through the year.

This season, defensive coordinator Patrick Graham is the man with a plan. He's detailed, structured, meticulous and determined. Using Ramsey primarily as a nickel corner should get the most out of the veteran and capitalize on the skills he is still elite at.

For the Steelers, that hopefully helps them reach the top-15 or higher in both passing and team defense this season.

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