5 young Steelers players who must take a big leap forward in 2021

LB Devin Bush

Of the names on this list, Devin Bush might end up being the best player due to his playmaking ability and elite athletic profile. Though he has shown promise early in his NFL career, we can’t pretend like he close to a finished product at this point.

During his rookie season in 2019, Bush was responsible for 2 interceptions, 4 fumble recoveries, 1 forced fumble, and a defensive touchdown during his rookie season, according to Pro Football Reference, but he really struggled in coverage – particularly in the red zone. Last year, Bush seemed to be gradually improving in each game before an ACL tear cut his sophomore season to just 5 games.

Bush was drafted in the same class as both Diontae Johnson and Justin Layne, and there were high expectations for all three players. Pittsburgh traded up to the 10th overall pick to be able to land Bush two years ago, so he needs to make sure their investment pays off.

Now fully healthy, Bush will be looking to avoid any other setbacks in 2021 and become the linebacker for this defense that the Steelers thought he would be when they drafted him. The upside is all there. Now he just needs to put everything together.