Pittsburgh Steelers: 4 possible first-time All-Pro players in 2021
By Tommy Jaggi
LB Devin Bush
It’s always a bold prediction to think that a young linebacker who landed on IR the previous season will go on to be an All-Pro player for the first time in the following year. However, I certainly think this is well within the realm of possibility.
When it comes to talent at the linebacker position, Devin Bush is not lacking. While he may measure in a little under 6’0”, size at the position has never been less important in the modern era, and we are seeing many ‘undersized’ linebackers thrive in today’s game. What he does possess, however, are some elite athletic traits and the speed to chase down the ball carrier from any point on the field.
Bush flashed playmaking ability as a rookie and became even more consistent in year two prior to tearing his ACL. If not for that setback, perhaps he could have had a status similar to 2019 first-round rival Devin White at this point.
With arguably the most dominant defensive line in the NFL in front of him, Bush should find many paths to creating plays for the Steelers in 2021. If he can take a big leap forward in year three, he could very well be an All-Pro for the first time in his age-23 season.