Star Bears Safety Projected to Land with Steelers

ESPN analyst believes Jaquan Brisker would be an ideal fit in Pittsburgh

Feb. 18, 2026 at 5:07pm

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According to ESPN analyst Matt Bowen, Chicago Bears strong safety Jaquan Brisker is projected to sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers in free agency. Bowen believes the 26-year-old Brisker, who is a Pittsburgh native, would be an ideal fit in the Steelers' defense under new coordinator Patrick Graham.

Why it matters

The Steelers are looking to bolster their secondary this offseason, and Brisker could be an upgrade over current safety Kyle Dugger. Brisker had a standout 2025 season with the Bears, recording 93 tackles, 1 interception, and 8 pass breakups.

The details

Bowen highlighted Brisker's ability to play over the top in Cover 2 schemes and his disruptive presence as a box defender. In four seasons with the Bears, Brisker has 4 interceptions, 7 sacks, and 14 pass breakups. The Steelers could also target a cornerback in free agency to pair with Brisker and clean up their secondary.

  • Brisker is set to become a free agent in the 2026 offseason.
  • The Steelers traded for safety Kyle Dugger from the Patriots in late October 2025.

The players

Jaquan Brisker

A 26-year-old strong safety who is coming off a standout 2025 season with the Chicago Bears, recording 93 tackles, 1 interception, and 8 pass breakups. Brisker is a Pittsburgh native who starred at Gateway High School and Penn State before being drafted by the Bears in the 2nd round in 2022.

Kyle Dugger

The safety the Steelers acquired via trade from the New England Patriots in late 2025 after an injury to DeShon Elliott. Dugger has proven to be a steadying force in the Steelers' secondary, recording a pick-six in Week 11 against the Bengals.

Patrick Graham

The Steelers' new defensive coordinator, who is expected to implement single-high safety schemes that could suit Brisker's skillset.

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What they’re saying

“In Pittsburgh, Brisker would replace Kyle Dugger under new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. Brisker can play over the top in Cover 2, and he would be a disruptive box defender in Graham's single-high schemes.”

— Matt Bowen, ESPN Analyst

What’s next

The Steelers will have to decide whether to re-sign Dugger or pursue Brisker in free agency to bolster their secondary.

The takeaway

Brisker's potential addition to the Steelers' defense would provide a significant upgrade at the safety position and help shore up a secondary that has been an area of concern in recent seasons. His Pittsburgh roots and fit in the team's new defensive scheme make him an intriguing free agent target for the Steelers this offseason.