The Pittsburgh Steelers set up a little reunion when they decided to bring back cornerback Cam Sutton in the 2024 offseason. Sutton was drafted in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Steelers and played six seasons in Pittsburgh before leaving in free agency to join the Detroit Lions for the 2023 season. After just one season in Detroit, Sutton faced legal issues, including a warrant for his arrest, leading the Lions to cut ties with him. With the Steelers familiar with his character and in need of help at the slot corner position, they seized the opportunity to bring back Sutton.
While Sutton serves an eight-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy, undrafted free agent Beanie Bishop Jr. has stepped into the starting role. Bishop has impressed coaches and fans with his performance in Sutton's absence, showcasing his potential as a key contributor on the defense.
In a recent media session, Bishop spoke candidly about competing with Sutton upon his return, highlighting the invaluable support he has received from the veteran cornerback. Rather than feeling threatened by Sutton’s comeback, Bishop praised him for helping elevate his game.
"No, not at all," Bishop said when asked if his approach changes with Sutton coming back from suspension.
Bishop was often viewed as the weakest link in the Steelers' star-studded defense during the 2024 season, making his standout performance against the New York Jets all the more significant. In a prime-time matchup, Bishop intercepted Aaron Rodgers twice, proving to be a pivotal X-factor in the Steelers’ commanding 37-15 victory. His ability to change the momentum of the game showcased his potential.
Despite the upcoming competition with Sutton for playing time, Bishop gives a lot of credit to Sutton for his development as a rookie. He acknowledges that Sutton’s guidance has been instrumental in his progress.
"Cam [Sutton], he's been helping me learn whatever, see the stuff that he's seeing," Bishop said. "Kind of try to take a veteran approach to it. He's just telling me things that he knows that obviously I probably won't because he's been in the league for six, seven years. Just to be able to try to help me slow the game down. Ultimately, we win as a team. He's just been trying to help me."
It's no surprise that Sutton has been a positive influence and supportive teammate to Bishop. Team chemistry is at an all-time high, and although Bishop is expected to be moved out of the starting lineup when Sutton returns, he has undeniably proven his value as a rookie.
Entering the league as an undrafted free agent is no easy feat, and being thrust into a starting role makes it even more challenging.
Steelers' Secondary Is About To Get Even Better
Despite facing some scrutiny at times, Bishop has held his own and made a noticeable impact on the field. The Steelers are eagerly counting down the days until Sutton’s return, recognizing the importance of his veteran presence and familiarity with the defensive scheme.
While the secondary has performed well in 2024, having Sutton back will provide an additional boost, further solidifying their defensive unit as they continue to strive for success.
It’s thrilling for Steeler Nation to hear about Sutton’s impact on Bishop’s development. Fans are eager to see how Sutton performs upon his return to the lineup. Even with Sutton back, Bishop is likely to remain involved as a valuable depth piece in the cornerback rotation. The Steelers' secondary is poised to get even stronger after the New York Giants game when Sutton completes his suspension, setting the stage for an exciting stretch of the season.
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