Pittsburgh Steelers: Rookie grades for 2019 season
By Samuel Teets
The Pittsburgh Steelers finished the regular season 8-8 in 2019, but some rookies offered hope. Grading out the Steelers’ 2019 draft class after year 1.
Less than a year ago, the Pittsburgh Steelers selected nine players in the 2019 NFL Draft. In their first season, the rookie class produced mixed results. While some of Pittsburgh’s earlier picks look like long-term starters, other players barely saw the field.
This article breaks down the contributions of each Steelers rookie and projects what they will bring to the team moving forward. Rookies appear under the subheading of the round Pittsburgh drafted them in, and a rookie grade accompanies each player.
Now, let’s reflect on Pittsburgh’s 2019 draft class, giving out a grade to each player in the Steelers’ class.
Round 1
Devin Bush: A-
The Steelers traded their 2019 first-round pick, a 2019 second-round pick and a 2020 third-round pick to the Denver Broncos for the 10th overall pick in the draft. Pittsburgh used the pick on Devin Bush, one of two inside linebackers expected to go in the first round. The last defensive player Pittsburgh traded up for in the first round was Troy Polamalu.
In his rookie season, Bush flashed Pro Bowl potential. However, he flashed his inexperience at points. In particular, Bush needs to work on his pass coverage. Despite his speed and athleticism, Bush got exposed in coverage several times. He also needs to wrap up more on tackles as he tends to bounce off stronger players.
Bush faces the challenging task of replacing Ryan Shazier. The Steelers drafted Shazier with the 15th overall pick in 2014. Before suffering a severe spinal injury that almost left him paralyzed, Shazier made the Pro Bowl in 2016. After his career-ending injury, the Ohio St. product also got elected into the 2017 Pro Bowl. Shazier seemed in line for a First-Team All-Pro selection before his injury.
Bush could be the next great linebacker in Pittsburgh’s storied history at the position. First, he needs to round out his game. One or two more years of experience could do wonders for the Michigan product.