Steelers' Surprise Roster Move Makes Beanie Bishop The Favorite To Start At Slot Corner

The Pittsburgh Steelers entered the offseason with some questions surrounding their secondary. To address them, they traded for Donte Jackson to lock down one corner spot, while Joey Porter Jr. is set to start on the opposite side. Jackson is an exciting addition who should elevate the Steelers' defense in the 2024 season. Porter is going to be entering into his second season and fans expect a lot from him.

However, the slot cornerback position has been a lingering concern. After the draft, Pittsburgh signed undrafted free agent Beanie Bishop Jr., a move General Manager Omar Khan described as a sneaky good addition. The Steelers also brought back Cam Sutton, reuniting him with his former team after legal issues led to his release from the Detroit Lions. Sutton was expected to start at slot corner, but his plans were derailed by an eight-game suspension from the NFL.

Meanwhile, Grayland Arnold had been getting some first-team reps at slot corner, offering a potential solution. But on Thursday, the Steelers' official team site reported that Arnold had been placed on the Reserve/Injured List. The team might negotiate an injury settlement with Arnold, allowing him to return later, but without one, his season is effectively over. 

The Steelers also signed defensive back Kiondre Thomas. This move comes as cornerback Arnold was placed on the reserve list after suffering an injury during camp. Arnold was having a strong camp and was poised for a chance at significant playing time this season. Meanwhile, Bishop has also impressed, with the Steelers’ coaching staff speaking highly of his performance.

When the unofficial depth chart was released, Bishop was listed as the starting slot corner. It’s uncommon for an undrafted free agent to earn a starting role in camp, making Bishop’s rise notable. Whether he can hold onto that spot and start Week 1 at nickelback remains to be seen.

Bishop had a solid showing in his preseason debut against the Houston Texans. Although the Steelers lost 20-12, Bishop’s performance slightly boosted his stock. Defensive Coordinator Teryl Austin acknowledged Bishop’s progress but emphasized that he still has work to do.

With Arnold out, Bishop’s chances of securing the starting job have increased. Transitioning from college to the NFL will be a challenge, but Bishop is motivated by the chip on his shoulder from going undrafted. The Steelers feel fortunate to have signed him after the draft.

Bishop will have another opportunity to impress the coaching staff and Steeler Nation on Saturday when the Steelers face the Buffalo Bills in their second preseason game. Fans will be hoping for better execution and an overall improved team performance. A lot of eyes will once again be on Bishop as he looks to further his strong hold on the starting nickelback position.

Steelers' Beanie Bishop Jr. Playing With Extra Motivation

It’s always exciting when an undrafted player exceeds expectations in camp. For Bishop, earning the starting spot is just the beginning. He’s determined to prove he should have been drafted and belongs in the NFL. 

After a stellar college career at West Virginia University, he’s now looking to continue that success with the Steelers. The news that Arnold is being placed on the Reserve/Injured List is unfortunate for Arnold but good news for Bishop.

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