The respect for Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Jalen Ramsey remains strong around the league.
As voted on annually by NFL players, Ramsey was revealed as the No. 82 player on the NFL’s Top 100 Players list for 2026. While the seven-time Pro Bowler slipped from his No. 66 ranking a year ago, he continues to be recognized as one of the league’s premier defensive playmakers thanks to his versatility and impact.
Ramsey’s highlight package featured praise from both teammates and opponents, including Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith and New England Patriots safety Kevin Byard III.
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“Jalen’s always been a special athlete, man,” Byard said. “I think he’s one of the few guys in this league, probably in league history, that can truly make that seamless transition to be a Pro Bowl corner and now a Pro Bowl safety.”
Former Steelers running back Trey Sermon also praised Ramsey’s unique skill set, calling the versatility he brings to a defense “exceptional.”
After spending much of his career as one of the NFL’s elite shutdown cornerbacks, Ramsey has successfully evolved into a hybrid defensive back capable of lining up at outside corner, in the slot, and at safety. That positional flexibility has allowed him to remain among the league’s most valuable defenders as he enters the next stage of his career.
The Steelers are expected to continue maximizing that versatility in 2026 under defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. Graham has long been known for deploying adaptable defenders in multiple roles, and Ramsey projects to serve as one of the focal points of Pittsburgh’s defense, moving around the formation as a true Swiss Army knife.
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Although his ranking dipped slightly from last season, Ramsey’s inclusion on the NFL Top 100 once again reflects the respect he commands from his peers and underscores the impact he is expected to have for the Steelers this season.
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