​A video that circulated on social media this week showed former Los Angeles Rams star Aaron Donald putting another Pittsburgh-area product through a workout as the future Hall of Fame defensive tackle worked with Steelers safety Jaquan Brisker on pass-rush techniques. The session united two Western Pennsylvania standouts: Donald, a Penn Hills product widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, and Brisker, who starred at nearby Gateway High School before playing at Penn State and beginning his NFL career with the Chicago Bears. Brisker signed a one-year deal with the Steelers this offseason after spending his first three NFL seasons in Chicago. The former second-round pick played in 35 games for the Bears, totaling 233 tackles, five interceptions, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and 5.5 sacks. Pittsburgh hopes Brisker can bring physicality and versatility to the secondary while giving him a chance to reestablish his value heading into free agency next spring.
Donald’s appearance in the video also fuels ongoing speculation about a possible NFL return. After a storied 10-year career characterized by eight first-team All-Pro selections, 10 Pro Bowls, a Super Bowl title, and 111 career sacks, the three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year retired following the 2023 season. Although Donald has repeatedly said he is enjoying retirement, rumors resurfaced this offseason after the Rams added star pass rusher Myles Garrett, prompting renewed fan chatter that the dominant defensive lineman could be tempted to come back. Donald has not indicated any plan to unretire.
For Brisker, learning from one of the game’s all-time greats could pay dividends. In his rookie season of 2022, Brisker recorded four sacks, displaying an ability to rush effectively from the safety position. That skill set fits well in new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham’s scheme, which has historically leaned on aggressive pressure from defensive backs and values versatility across the defense. If Brisker can stay healthy and seize those opportunities, he could become one of Pittsburgh’s most valuable defensive chess pieces in 2026, while positioning himself for a substantial contract after the season.
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