Will Beanie Bishop Breakout in 2025?

Photo Credit: Steelers.com

The Steelers have had few undrafted free agents make a significant impact in recent years.

In 2022, running back Jaylen Warren stood out during training camp, earning a spot on the active roster. Though he finished the season with just 379 rushing yards and a touchdown, he established himself as one of the conference’s most reliable backups. Three seasons later, Warren is now competing for the team’s starting running back position following Najee Harris' departure in free agency.

Defensive back Beanie Bishop followed a similar path last year. Signed as an undrafted free agent from West Virginia, he impressed during training camp and secured a spot on the 53-man roster. His breakout moment came in Week 7 of the 2024 season, when he intercepted former Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers twice—returning one for 41 yards before being stopped at the one-yard line. He continued his strong performance with another interception in the following week's win against the Giants and finished the season second on the team with four interceptions. His overall performance in October 2024 would earn him NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month.

Beyond his ball-hawking ability, Bishop excelled in coverage. He ranked third on the team with seven passes defended while allowing a 57.1% completion rate on 63 targets and a passer rating of just 59.5—largely due to his interceptions. By all accounts, Bishop’s rookie season was a resounding success.

Despite the additions of Brandin Echols in free agency and Donte Kent in this year's draft, Bishop’s role is unlikely to diminish. On the contrary, it is expected to expand, given his natural ball instincts and strong commitment to run support—qualities that make him a valuable asset to the Steelers' secondary. All indications suggest he will establish himself as the team's primary slot defender and build upon his performance from last season.