Pittsburgh Steelers' undrafted rookie cornerback, Beanie Bishop Jr. is quickly proving he’s one of the team's best finds this season. In Week 7, he had a breakout game in the Steelers’ 37-15 win over the New York Jets, recording two interceptions and a crucial tackle for loss that left fans and analysts buzzing. Despite his stellar performance, he got overlooked for the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Week, raising some eyebrows.
The Steelers were trailing 15-6 in the second quarter when Bishop made his first big play. Aaron Rodgers, looking to build on the Jets’ lead, threw a pass over the middle to Garrett Wilson. Bishop broke on the ball and caught the interception after reading Rodgers flawlessly. Pittsburgh gained momentum thanks to this pivotal turnover, which allowed Russell Wilson to pass to George Pickens for an 11-yard touchdown, bringing the Steelers within two points at 15–13.
For Bishop, that play was only the beginning. Wilson was once more the target of Rodgers in the third quarter as the Steelers were making a comeback. Bishop was there to catch the ball as it bounced off Wilson's shoulder pad this time. He put Pittsburgh in a prime scoring position by returning the interception to the Jets' one-yard line. On the very next play, Wilson executed a quarterback sneak, pushing the Steelers ahead 23-15.
Earlier in the second quarter, Bishop had already made his presence felt when he tackled Garrett Wilson for a four-yard loss. With the Jets trying to extend their narrow lead before halftime, Bishop’s stop halted their momentum and kept them from adding more points. Although it doesn't always appear in the box score, the play was crucial in keeping the Steelers within striking distance. Bishop was a crucial player in this matchup because of his ability to snuff plays and seize opportunities.
Steelers' Bishop Snubbed Despite An Outstanding Performance
Despite his game-changing plays, the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Week went to Denver Broncos linebacker, Cody Barton. Barton had a solid game against the New Orleans Saints, forcing a fumble and recovering another that teammate Ja'Quan McMillian knocked loose. Barton returned that fumble 52 yards for a touchdown.
Although Barton's performance had a significant impact, many believed Bishop's two interceptions and tackle for loss were equally worthy of recognition. 14 of the Steelers' points came directly from Bishop's efforts, and Pittsburgh won the game thanks in large part to his defensive presence. It is impossible to overestimate the significance of his contributions to the team, even though the recognition may have eluded him.
The Defensive Player of the Week competition can be extremely competitive, as demonstrated by Bishop's snub. Although Barton was recognized for his spectacular play, Bishop's crucial plays that had a direct impact on the game's outcome are difficult to overlook. In just his seventh NFL game, the rookie cornerback excelled in timing, awareness, and making game-changing plays,
Bishop will undoubtedly feel more confident and secure his spot on the team, despite some struggles throughout the season, because of his performance against the Jets. While individual honors are nice, his contribution to the Steelers' victories is more important. Pittsburgh's ability to uncover untapped talent is demonstrated by the undrafted rookie's performance, which has already shown that he belongs on this stage.
Seeing a player like Bishop step up in pivotal situations is thrilling for Steelers fans. He exemplifies the Steelers' values of perseverance, diligence, and opportunity-seizing through his journey from an undrafted free agent, to a vital defensive contributor.
In the end, Bishop might be the Steelers' next great nickel cornerback, and this is only the beginning for him. The Steelers will need his ability to perform well under duress and make clutch plays if they want to keep up their momentum this season. Bishop's potential impact on Pittsburgh in the upcoming weeks and beyond is uncertain as he continues to hone his abilities. Steelers supporters can anticipate more highlights from Bishop as he makes a name for himself in the league, but the possibilities are endless for this bright young player.
