5 best performances by Steelers players at the NFL Combine

Steelers LB Devin Bush

The Steelers needed a replacement for the speedy Ryan Shazier following his injury in 2017. They set their sights on another Big Ten linebacker in Devin Bush, trading up with the Denver Broncos to select him 10th overall in 2019. Bush was one of the most exciting players in the class as an aggressive sideline-to-sideline linebacker with speed to burn.

His combine did not disappoint as he ran a 4.43 40 at a stocky 5’11 and 234lbs and put up a 40.5’ vertical leap. He performed very well in the 3-cone (6.93) and broad jump (124’) as well. He was outshined a bit by fellow linebacker prospect Devin White, but he cemented himself as the 2nd best player at his position.

Bush had an up and down rookie season but managed to finish 3rd in rookie of the year voting. He started all but one game and led the Steelers in tackles, but he was inconsistent in coverage and was still learning how to read and react in the run game. He did have a few splash plays including a fumble return for a score, but it was clear he had some growing to do. His sophomore campaign was off to a promising start through five games before tearing his ACL in week 6, ending his season.

He returned in time for training camp this past season, but he did not look at all like the dynamic athlete he was his first two seasons. Injuries on the defensive line didn’t make his job easier, but much of his struggles were on him alone. He may have not been fully recovered from his ACL surgery, and his play did improve a bit late in the season.

With new linebackers coach Brian Flores now on the Steelers staff, Bush will have a chance to make a huge leap and continue his career as a Steeler. Otherwise, he could end up as just another NFL Combine warrior.