Steelers Welcome Safety Jaquan Brisker with a Familiar Number
PITTSBURGH - The Pittsburgh Steelers have added a new face to their defensive backfield, and he comes with a number that carries a bit of local history. Jaquan Brisker, the newly signed safety, announced at his introductory press conference that he’ll be donning No. 3-a number familiar to fans from his days at Gateway High School in Monroeville.
Brisker, who previously sported No. 9 with the Chicago Bears, had to make a switch since that number is reserved by longtime Steelers kicker Chris Boswell. His affinity for single-digit numbers is clear, having also worn No. 1 during his college career at Penn State.
The last Steeler to wear No. 3 was punter Corliss Waitman, who has since moved on to the San Francisco 49ers in free agency. The number has its own legacy with the Steelers, notably worn by kicker Jeff Reed and quarterback Russell Wilson during his brief stint with the team in 2024.
Brisker, who is about to celebrate his 27th birthday, brings a wealth of experience from his four seasons with the Bears. He was a consistent presence on the field, starting all 52 games he played and amassing 342 tackles along with four interceptions.
Before his professional career, Brisker made a name for himself at Gateway, then at Lackawanna College, and finally at Penn State. He was a second-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, selected 48th overall.
Joining a safety room that includes DeShon Elliott, Jalen Ramsey, Sebastian Castro, and the newly signed Darnell Savage, Brisker is set to be an integral part of the Steelers' defensive strategy. Savage, who recently inked a deal with the team, brings his own experience from stints with the Bills, Jaguars, and Commanders.
During his college days with the Nittany Lions, Brisker was a standout performer. Over 34 games, he started 21 and recorded 153 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, five interceptions, 14 pass breakups, and a fumble recovery. His efforts earned him first-team All-American honors from CBS Sports/247Sports, On3, and Pro Football Focus in 2021.
As Brisker steps onto the field with the Steelers, fans will be eager to see how his hard-hitting style and playmaking ability enhance an already formidable defense.