Steelers HC Mike Tomlin reveals the hard truth regarding recent play of rookie UDFA

While the Pittsburgh Steelers struggled as an entire outfit against the Dallas Cowboys, the breakdowns on defense were particularly notable for a unit that is supposed to be buttoned up.

One position and player that was at the forefront of the issues was slot corner Beanie Bishop, a rookie UDFA out of West Virginia.

When asked about Bishop's play and the direction of opposing offenses in terms of his targeting Mike Tomlin gave an answer that tells you all you need to know:

Beanie Bishop Struggles vs. Cowboys

"I think that we all know that Beanie [Bishop] is going to get targeted," said Coach Tomlin when addressing the media regarding his performance after the game. "I think Beanie knows he going to get targeted. He's a young guy in the huddle, such is life in the NFL as a defensive back."

But while Beanie was targeted, it was the prevalence of penalties and pure discombobulation that plagued his film on Sunday, making you wonder what Pittsburgh does at the position going forward.

To be clear, Bishop has had his moments this season, and even on Sunday, making plays against the pass and run. But the inexperience and lack of size show up against veteran QBs and play-callers like that of Dak Prescott and Mike McCarthy.

Pittsburgh didn't necessarily plan for Bishop to start, or at least not in 2024. But the suspension of Cam Sutton put the team back at square one , followed by an injury to veteran Grayland Arnold that thrust Beanie into the starting lineup.

So Pittsburgh has to do their best to mask that position right now and as of late that hasn't been the case. The defense is struggling to play 2 high coverages, failing to communicate properly in the backend, which only emphasizes the mistakes of a rookie.

Time on task is needed for Bishop and sharper play is needed from the Steelers defense in general.

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