Training camp kicked off this week, revealing some surprising standouts right from the start. Several highlights emerged from the first few practices. Notably, Beanie Bishop received first-team reps on the Steelers' opening day of practice.
It's uncommon for a rookie to get first-team reps immediately, and even more so for an undrafted rookie to get such an opportunity from the outset. This could be a significant development, as Bishop seems poised to take over the starting job heading into Week 1.
Beanie Bishop Jr Week 1 slot corner?
The praise for Beanie Bishop has been overwhelmingly positive after the first week of camp, which is exciting news for Steelers fans. The slot corner position was an immediate need for the team, and with Cameron Sutton serving his suspension, someone needed to step up and fill the gap. Beanie Bishop has made a strong enough impression to earn the first reps at training camp, which is a very promising sign.
As a rookie, Bishop will undoubtedly experience ups and downs during training camp, but there is hope for continuous improvement. His ability to quickly adapt and perform well in such a critical role speaks volumes about his potential. If he continues to be reliable and shows steady progress, the team should seriously consider labeling him as a starter for Week 1.
Finding quality slot corners late in the offseason through free agency is notoriously challenging, and while the final roster cuts could offer a chance to sign a veteran, Bishop's progress could solidify his position as a starter. His performance thus far has been encouraging, and it is increasingly working in his favor, given the team's lack of depth at cornerback, particularly in the slot.
The intrigue of versatility once Cameron Sutton returns
If Beanie Bishop steps up and is announced as the starter, and if he performs well in that role, the Steelers will find themselves in a very advantageous position when Cameron Sutton returns in Week 9. Sutton's ability to play both outside and inside will add significant flexibility to the secondary, allowing the defense to be more versatile.
As training camp progresses, all eyes will be on Bishop to see if he can maintain his momentum and secure the starting cornerback role. His performance in the preseason will be crucial in determining his readiness and capability to fill this critical position.
The team is in desperate need of someone to step up, and Bishop has the opportunity to prove himself and solidify his place on the roster. The next few weeks will be pivotal for Bishop and the Steelers' secondary, and fans will be eagerly watching to see how it all unfolds.