NFL teams are always looking for gems. In the draft, in free agency, or via trade, teams love finding players who outplay the value it took to acquire them. In 2024, the Pittsburgh Steelers seemingly found a gem in undrafted defensive back Beanie Bishop Jr.
Bishop attended three different colleges, but made his way to the NFL as an undrafted player and made the Steelers’ roster as a rookie. However, he didn’t just make the roster; he became an impact player after impressing all offseason. Bishop ultimately appeared in 17 games, starting six, and recorded 45 tackles, a half a sack, seven pass deflections, and four interceptions.
After his impressive rookie season, it seemed like he would be a part of Pittsburgh’s plans for years to come. Now, just an offseason later, Bishop’s time with the Steelers could already be coming to an end. Eric Edholm highlighted that in a recent piece on NFL.com, naming trade and cut candidates ahead of the 53-man roster deadline. Bishop was listed as a trade candidate.
Beanie Bishop Jr. named as trade candidate for Steelers ahead of cut day
Edholm’s reasoning for Bishop being on this list was simple: Pittsburgh’s secondary is significantly improved, so the second-year corner may not have much of a role anymore. The writer detailed the new additions who could force Bishop out the door.
"The Steelers signed Darius Slay and Brandin Echols and traded for Jalen Ramsey this offseason, pushing Bishop to the margins. With multiple players already capable of playing the nickel, Bishop might be expendable. DB coach Teryl Austin recently said Bishop needed to "fight and work to get some splash to get in the picture." It wouldn't be stunning if the Steelers floated him in a trade."Eric Edholm (NFL.com)
It’s clear Bishop won’t have as big a role as he did a year ago; however, it won’t hurt to keep him as a depth piece. With the way NFL seasons unfold, teams never know which players they could end up relying on. Bishop could find himself thrust back into the mix.
Additionally, Bishop is a young corner who has proven his ability to produce. With the future in mind, the Steelers should hold on to him unless they’re overwhelmed with an offer.