Steelers Are Desperate For Cam Sutton's Return From Suspension: "Counting The Weeks"

The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted cornerback Cam Sutton in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Sutton spent five seasons establishing himself as a key player in Pittsburgh’s secondary before departing in free agency ahead of the 2023 season. He joined the Detroit Lions on a three-year, $33 million deal, but his time in Detroit was cut short after legal trouble led to his release. When a warrant for his arrest surfaced, Sutton failed to turn himself in, prompting the Lions to move on from him. Despite his off-field issues, the Steelers, familiar with Sutton’s abilities and character, were willing to offer him a second chance.

However, the NFL stepped in and suspended Sutton for eight games during the 2024 season due to his legal troubles. With Sutton sidelined, the Steelers were forced to look for a replacement in their secondary. Beanie Bishop Jr., an undrafted free agent, was thrust into the starting role at nickelback to cover for Sutton’s absence. Though Bishop has shown promise, the team is eager to have their veteran cornerback back on the field to strengthen the defense.

Steelers insider Gerry Dulac recently joined the DVE Morning Show and offered insight into the team's mindset regarding Sutton's situation. He emphasized just how much the Steelers are counting the days until Sutton’s suspension is lifted. While Bishop has performed admirably, the organization believes Sutton’s experience and leadership will make a significant impact upon his return.

"The Steelers have been counting the weeks til Cam Sutton is eligible to come back because he is an established veteran player who knows what he's doing there," Dulac said on Tuesday. "And that is still the case. But man, what they got out of Beanie Bishop [Sunday] night [was impressive]."

Heading into the Steelers' Week 7 matchup against the New York Jets, there was significant concern about how Pittsburgh's secondary would handle Aaron Rodgers and his new weapon. The Jets had just made a blockbuster trade to acquire star wide receiver Davante Adams, adding to an already dangerous offense that featured Garrett Wilson. The pressure was on the Steelers' defense to slow down Rodgers, Adams, and Wilson in what seemed like a daunting challenge.

However, the Steelers' secondary rose to the occasion, with Bishop playing a key role in their success. Bishop had a breakout performance, making crucial plays across the field. He recorded a key tackle for loss and grabbed two game-changing interceptions. Those turnovers were momentum-shifters, helping the Steelers control the game.

Steelers' Beanie Bishop Jr. Must Continue To Improve

Bishop’s standout play was instrumental in the Steelers' dominant 37-15 victory over the Jets. His interceptions not only halted the Jets' offense, but also gave Pittsburgh the upper hand, allowing the defense to dictate the pace of the game.

Despite Bishop's exciting performance, the Steelers still view Sutton as their primary option in the secondary and are eager to get him back on the field. Sutton's suspension will end after the Steelers' Week 8 game against the New York Giants, and his return is expected to provide a major boost. Just last season, Sutton was considered a top-tier cornerback on the free-agent market. Now, due to his legal issues, the Steelers have him back at a bargain.

While Bishop has faced some challenges, his standout game against the Jets marked a turning point in his rookie season. He’s been asked to step up in a significant role and has exceeded expectations for an undrafted free agent. Even so, the Steelers are eager to reintegrate Sutton into the lineup, seeing him as the key to further strengthening an already loaded defense.

Adding Sutton to the mix will give the Steelers a massive boost as they look to solidify their secondary and make a playoff push. With Sutton’s experience and playmaking ability, the defense could elevate to an elite level.

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