A Pair Of Former Steelers First-Round Draft Busts Will Have A Chance To Revive Their Careers With The Seattle Seahawks In 2023

Many fans of the Pittsburgh Steelers would argue that there have not been more frustrating players for the team over the past few seasons than cornerback, Artie Burns and inside linebacker, Devin Bush. Both were first-round draft picks and had expectations to be long-term answers at their respective positions. Unfortunately, neither one were able to do so and never received a second contract from the Steelers. 

Burns and Bush played one season together in 2019 with the Steelers. Fast forward to 2023, and the duo will once again be teammates. This time, with the Seattle Seahawks as it was announced that Burns re-signed with the team on May 22nd. While both still have the capability to revive their NFL careers with the Seahawks, there is no denying that the Steelers have more than moved on from two of the biggest draft busts in the modern era of the franchise. 

A Fresh Start For The Former Steelers' First-Round Picks In Seattle

During his four seasons in Pittsburgh, Burns appeared in 58 games and made 32 starts. He showed promise during his rookie campaign, totaling three interceptions to go along with 65 total tackles. However, his level of play declined as his time with the Steelers went on, and only made one start in 2019, his final season in Pittsburgh. 

Bush followed an eerily similar career path, as he played four seasons in Pittsburgh. Like Burns, he seemed to be well on his way to a successful career in Pittsburgh during his rookie year, but struggled with consistency throughout his tenure. Following the 2022 season, Bush had seemingly zero interest in coming back to the Steelers and opted to sign a one-year contract with the Seahawks.  

Bush will likely see significant playing time with the Seahawks in 2023 alongside future Hall of Famer, Bobby Wagner as fellow linebacker, Jordyn Brooks, is recovering from an ACL tear suffered late last season. Perhaps being mentored by Wagner will prove to be beneficial for Bush's career as he is in desperate need of a fresh start in Seattle. 

Burns, on the other hand, will have a much more difficult time seeing the field this upcoming season, as the Seahawks' secondary already boasts an impressive list of players such as Tariq Woolen, Mike Jackson, Coby Bryant, and 2023 first-round pick, Devon Witherspoon. He will need to prove that he can not only stay healthy, but add value to a Seattle defense that is poised to be much improved in 2023. 

Where Do Burns And Bush Rank Among The Steelers' First-Round Draft Busts? 

Both Burns and Bush had very tumultuous careers in Pittsburgh as their up-and-down play caused an immeasurable number of headaches for Steelers' fans. One could make the argument that both players were the biggest first-round draft busts for the Steelers over the course of the last 20 seasons. 2013 first-round pick, Jarvis Jones deserves consideration as well. 

Perhaps the most frustrating aspect of both Burns and Bush's time with the Steelers is that they both showed promise early on in their careers, especially Bush. His athleticism was on full display during his rookie year. Unfortunately, an ACL tear during the 2020 season ultimately derailed his ability to be a game-changing player at the inside linebacker position. 

In terms of their ongoing careers in the NFL, both will need a strong 2023 with the Seahawks to prove their worth as starting-quality defensive players. Bush faces a much more favorable opportunity compared to Burns, who will likely face an uphill battle of cracking the team's 53-man roster. While Steelers' fans wish the best for the next chapter of their playing careers, there is virtually zero chance that many will miss watching them in the black and gold. 

Thoughts, Steeler Nation?

What is your opinion on the Seahawks re-signing Burns? Do you expect him to make the team in 2023? How about Bush? Do you think he will revive his career in Seattle? Let us know in the comments! 

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