DeShon Elliott is quickly becoming a fan favorite in Pittsburgh, and for good reason. After an impressive Week 1 performance against the Atlanta Falcons, where he snagged an interception along with two passes defended, Elliott came out strong again in Week 2, helping lead the Steelers defense in a tough win over the Denver Broncos. His team high 9 total tackles, including 4 solo stops and a tackle for loss, were just a glimpse of the impact he’s making on the field.

Elliott has shown the ability to be in the right place at the right time seemingly all the time. Whether it’s stopping the run or making a big play in coverage, he seems to have a sixth sense for where the ball is going. His third-down tackle for loss against the Broncos was a much-needed play that made me literally jump out of my seat. Moments like those show why he’s becoming such a valuable part of the Steelers defense and a massive offseason signing for Omar Khan and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

What makes Elliott’s start to the season so exciting is that he’s doing it all—covering ground in the secondary, shutting down the run, and being a leader on and off the field. Coming from the Baltimore Ravens, he understands the grit and physicality needed to play Steelers and AFC North football. He knows the importance of being a strong, physical, dominate defense and its impact on the overall team success.

In just two games, he’s proven he’s not just another player on the 53-man roster but a major part of the Steelers’ early success. He has shown his ability to create splash plays when the team needs it most along with making the routine plays routinely. As the season continues, look for Elliott to keep making game-changing plays and being a key contributor on an elite defense.