Entering the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2024 season, undrafted rookie free agent Beanie Bishop wouldn’t have thought he would be second in the team at Interception. His four picks were the most common in 70 years by the Steelers’ UDFA rookie, and the clutch appeared at a key moment. Sitting with Missi Matthews from Steelers.com, he shared his favourites. Aaron Rodgers wasn’t his first either.
“I really like that giant,” Bishop told Matthews. In a recent interview on the team’s website. “Just because I told Alex Highsmith I was going to finish the game, and I can finish the game on a Monday night, when the whole world is watching, especially in two consecutive games. You can do it. It’s a major.”
Most undrafted free agents don’t get much playing time, but that wasn’t the case with Bishop. Starting Nickel Corner Cam Sutton missed the first eight games of the season due to suspension. As a result, Bishop launched six contests, repeatedly affecting the game with splash plays. This included his eighth week interception against the New York Giants.
Despite Pittsburgh appearing to be running away in a victory over New York, the Giants brought things closer to their final minutes. New York left the ball in under eighth of a minute on the Steelers’ 35-yard line. Daniel Jones let his receivers get in the air and after Bobble the bishop descends with an intercept that greets the game closely.
During a two-game home stretch with both New York teams, Bishop was talking about town. He had two intercepts against Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets the previous week. Rodgers even signed those balls. It’s definitely a special moment for undrafted rookies.
However, Bishop was not a happy rookie in the league. He had points to prove and he made the most of his chances. Bishop played in all 17 games, with seven passes defended, one fumble recovery and 45 tackles. He was targeted 63 times and allowed 36 receptions for just 388 yards. Most impressively, Bishop allowed a passerby rating of 59.5 when targeted primarily thanks to these four picks. Only Hall of Fame Jack Butler has more intercepts as the Steelers UDFA rookie, hooking five in 1951.
The bishop had a distribution of his struggles, but proved his worth as an undrafted free agent. He has to fight for future playtime, but if he can continue to develop, the Steelers may have a jewel in their hands.
