The Pittsburgh Steelers followed up a sensational start to their 2024 offseason by putting together a 2024 NFL Draft haul that has impressed across the league. Adding size and talent to their offensive line, and improving an already brilliant defense, the Steelers weren't through bringing in potential upgrades to their roster. Former West Virginia cornerback Beanie Bishop Jr. was one of Pittsburgh's UDFA signings following the draft, and the Steelers already know what to do with him.
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Cornerback Beanie Bishop Jr.
Bishop comes to the Steelers knowing that they have a particular need at defensive back and he is eager to make an impact quickly. At 5'10" and 184 pounds, Bishop isn't the typical lanky, taller cornerback that the Steelers have added recently, but that doesn't mean he won't have a role. In an interview with Steelers Takeaways, Bishop was asked about the expectations leading up to Pittsburgh's rookie camp and where they intend to start him out.
"Really just starting to learn the playbook. That’s the biggest thing. And learning my role with the team. They told me they wanted me to play in the slot and contribute in the return game. I feel like I can play anywhere really, but I’m excited to play wherever they need me."
While most rookies earn their way onto NFL rosters by making a mark on special teams, it is wonderful to see a young, undrafted player with a hunger to play the game in whatever capacity he is asked. After Patrick Peterson didn't end up becoming the savvy veteran addition Pittsburgh expected for the 2023 season, there is a need to be filled at slot cornerback. Bishop may eventually find himself with that chance, but for the moment, his focus is on the return game and how he can contribute.
Being a legitimate NFL kick returner is much more than pure speed and quickness, something Bishop understands very well. It isn't just his shiftiness, but the skills he learned from playing defense have added to what he can do on special teams. After Steelers Takeaways asked about the skills that would make him a good returner in the league, Bishop was ready with a confident, informed answer that should make any fan eager to see what he can do.
"I almost always make the first man miss and get north-south quickly. I’m a defensive guy, so I don’t like going to the ground. I don’t turn the ball over either – and I’m elusive."
Bishop is facing an uphill battle to snag one of the returner positions, especially with Cordarrelle Patterson on the roster. Patterson has a special place in NFL history as the most successful kick returner in the league's existence. With nine kicks returned for touchdowns in his career, Bishop will have his work cut out for him, even with the confidence he is approaching the situation with. With the new NFL kickoff rules making life interesting for special teams across the league, Bishop could find himself working in tandem with Patterson when the 2024 season begins.
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Cordarrelle Patterson evading tacklers during a game with the Atlanta Falcons.
Steelers' Youth Ready To Make Defensive Impact
Bishop is just one of many young players who are ready to begin their NFL journey or who are in the early stages of their careers. Joey Porter Jr., Keeanu Benton, Nick Herbig, and the recovering Cory Trice Jr. are entering their second seasons in the NFL, and each has reason to be hopeful of the road ahead. Bishop brings a youthful exuberance to the way he approaches the game, and it will mesh well with the way Herbig attacks every single play.
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Cornerback Beanie Bishop Jr. during his time at West Virginia.
After two successful drafts - and subsequent UDFA signings - the Steelers have plenty of reasons to feel positive about the future of the franchise. Bishop represents everything the Steelers desire in a player: his hunger, his tenacity, and his coachable traits. With a slew of young talent around him and leadership within the locker room, Bishop should be excited for a 2024 season that could be defined by their younger players. Whether it is on special teams or playing slot cornerback, Bishop is ready to bring everything he has in whatever way the Steelers need him to.
What impact will Beanie Bishop have during the Steelers' 2024 season?
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