Last season the Pittsburgh Steelers made a big move to go up and get linebacker Devin Bush in the first round. It was a risk but for the most part, the most part the move has paid off. Bush started 15 games in 2020, finished with 109 total tackles, two interceptions and nine tackles for loss.
Yet when pundits would have conversations about the best all-around off-ball linebackers in the league, Bush rarely got a whisper. This is part of the reason when ESPN put together their most underrated players of 2020, Bush made the list.
Both top-10 picks in 2019, Bush and Devin White have superstar potential as anchors in the middle of the Steelers’ and Buccaneers’ defenses, respectively. They combine 4.4 40-yard dash speed with the ability to create turnovers.
But Bush got slightly more top-five consideration among NFL personnel because of his microwavable splash-play ability.
When combining interceptions, forced fumbles, fumble recoveries, sacks and tackles for loss, Bush edged White 17 to 14.5 last year.
Reports out of training camp are glowing for Bush. He’s in great shape and looks like he is ready for an expanded role on defense. It’s interesting to note in the ESPN article that in terms of splash plays, Bush beat out edge T.J. Watt, who is a top candidate for Defensive Player of the Year.
