3 reasons why Cameron Sutton extension should be top priority for Steelers
By Tommy Jaggi
The Steelers CB has made strides each year
Cameron Sutton is often overshadowed by the other players in his draft class – and what a class it turned out to be for the Steelers! T.J Watt is an All-Pro player and Defensive Player of the Year candidate for the second season in a row, while JuJu Smith-Schuster and James Conner are both former Pro Bowlers and highly popular players.
Right now, Sutton might be the second-best of all of them (not necessarily in terms of his importance, but his overall consistency and level of play). After a slow start to his NFL career, Sutton really exploded onto the scene as a part-time player for the Steelers in 2019. Last year, his 74.5 overall grade was second only to Steven Nelson at cornerback for Pittsburgh, according to Pro Football Focus. This year, Sutton ranks 1st among cornerbacks on the team and 21st of 126 qualifying cornerbacks in the NFL.
While he may not possess ideal size metrics for the position (5’11”, 188 lbs, 30” arms), Sutton is a fiery competitor who is rarely caught out of position. In addition, Sutton has recorded an interception and 3 forced fumbles this year despite playing just 54 percent of defensive snaps, according to Pro Football Reference.
light. Related Story. 3 reasons Steelers must get run game going against Bengals
Cameron Sutton may not be the most complete cornerback in the NFL. He has modest athletic traits and is a bit undersized if he were to start on the outside full-time. However, his youth, improvements, and reasonable price tag are all reasons his contract extension should be a top priority for the Steelers in 2021.