Steelers' Cam Sutton Not Certain What Is Expected From Him In 2024

The Pittsburgh Steelers' cornerback situation has been a major story this offseason. The drama began with the trade of star wide receiver Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for cornerback Donte Jackson. Jackson, an experienced veteran, is expected to form a strong partnership with Joey Porter Jr. on the outside. While this pairing shows promise, questions remain about the nickelback position.

In a bold move, the Steelers decided to re-sign former cornerback Cam Sutton, who had left for the Detroit Lions in free agency before the 2023 season. However, Sutton's stint with the Lions was short-lived due to legal troubles, leading to his release after just one year. Sutton faced a warrant for his arrest, prompting the Lions to part ways with him.

The Steelers, familiar with Sutton's character and potential, chose to give him a second chance. Despite his eight-game suspension due to legal issues, the team remains hopeful. In the meantime, undrafted free agent Beanie Bishop Jr. is expected to take on the nickelback role until Sutton's return. However, Sutton recently told Brian Batko of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette that he's uncertain about his exact role once he returns from suspension. Batko asked Sutton where he expects to be playing when he returns from suspension. 

"We’ll see when I’m back," Sutton said.

In the Steelers' final preseason game against the Lions, Sutton's former team, he intercepted quarterback Hendon Hooker. Throughout the offseason, Sutton has demonstrated his versatility, playing as an inside corner, outside corner, and even at safety. He is confident in his ability to adapt to any role the team requires.

While Steelers fans assume Sutton will take on the nickelback position upon his return, this will largely depend on the performance of Bishop or whoever else occupies that spot. Despite the uncertainty, Sutton remains confident in his capacity to excel in any position, as noted by Batko.

"Sutton called himself 'an interchangeable piece,' much like he was for his first five seasons in the league wearing a Steelers jersey," Batko wrote. "Detroit signed him to be an outside cornerback and played him there, but the results were humbling even before there was a warrant out for his arrest and the Lions swiftly released him."

During his one season with the Lions, Sutton played as an outside cornerback, starting all 17 games. In 2023, he recorded one interception, six passes defensed, one forced fumble, and 65 combined tackles. While it wasn’t a standout year, it wasn’t disastrous either. The Lions, however, were not entirely satisfied with his performance.

Despite this, Sutton is eager to prove himself with the Steelers. He is comfortable playing in any role the team needs and is confident in his ability to contribute to the Steelers' success in 2024.

"I’m always comfortable out there on the field, so it doesn’t matter my job or my role. My job is to win."

The decision to re-sign Sutton sparked controversy due to his legal issues and the surrounding saga. Nonetheless, his return is expected to significantly strengthen the Steelers' defense. 

Sutton is likely to step in as the starting nickelback once his suspension ends, though he remains flexible and willing to play wherever he's needed to help the team win.

Steelers' Beanie Bishop Jr. Should Have A Great Chance As An Undrafted Rookie

In the meantime, Bishop is likely to play a crucial role in the secondary due to Sutton's suspension. This opportunity has generated excitement among Steelers fans but also some concern. Bishop went undrafted for a reason and has zero NFL experience. It's a risky position to be in.

Steelers fans look forward to a formidable trio of Sutton, Jackson, and Porter upon Sutton’s return. Some fans believe the Steelers might seek additional help from outside the organization to bolster depth and provide veteran leadership. Steeler Nation will be watching closely for any potential cornerback additions.

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