In what can only be described as an extremely compromised Pittsburgh Steelers defense over the past three weeks, one standout rookie for the team has seemingly vanished. Fans of the Black and Gold, myself included, are asking, ‘Where is Beanie Bishop Jr.?’
It was expected that the return of suspended CB Cameron Sutton would significantly cut into the rookie corner’s defensive snaps. However, Bishop was arguably on the cusp of entering the Defensive Rookie of the Year conversation in 2024.
A struggling defense, especially one dealing with numerous injuries in the secondary, should be utilizing all available personnel, regardless of experience. Yet, Bishop was entirely absent from defensive snaps during the team’s Week 17 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas Day.
While Sutton has faced challenges in coverage this season, his stronger run-stopping ability compared to Bishop may explain the rookie’s recent lack of involvement.
HC Mike Tomlin has hinted at necessary changes moving forward. Could one of those changes involve getting Bishop back on the field?