Pittsburgh Steelers: Ranking the last 10 top picks in NFL Draft
By Samuel Teets
8. Terrell Edmunds, S, Virginia Tech (2018)
The Steelers needed a safety but the team reached for Edmunds at No. 28 overall. Edmunds became the third safety selected in the first round, joining All-Pros Minkah Fitzpatrick (11th) and Derwin James (17th). Pittsburgh traded for Fitzpatrick this past season and paired him with Edmunds.
Edmunds wasn’t even the best safety available when Pittsburgh picked him. Justin Reid, who Houston selected in the third round, and even Jessie Bates, who Cincinnati claimed in the second round, are just as good if not better than Edmunds. Realistically, Edmunds should’ve gone in the third round at most.
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In his first two seasons with the Steelers, Edmunds produced one interception, seven passes defensed, one sack, and 183 tackles. Hopefully, he can develop in pass coverage and serve as more than just a decent run defender.
7. Devin Bush, ILB, Michigan (2019)
Searching for a replacement for Ryan Shazier, the Steelers traded up in the 2019 NFL Draft and selected Bush. Bush served as a dynamic, two-year starter at Michigan. He possesses the speed and potential coverage abilities Pittsburgh valued at linebacker, so the team traded up for him.
As a rookie, Bush relentlessly pursued the ball. He always found ways to get involved in plays. However, Bush still misses some tackles, and his coverage capabilities still need a lot of work. Nevertheless, Bush performed well as a rookie. He produced two interceptions, one forced fumble, four fumble recoveries, a sack, 109 tackles, and a defensive touchdown.
Pittsburgh usually takes their time developing inside linebackers. Shazier only started five games in his rookie year. Lawrence Timmons, the 15th overall pick in 2007, didn’t become a full-time starter until his third season. Pittsburgh trusting Bush to take over so quickly speaks volumes to their faith in his abilities and maturity.