Steelers make decision on future of linebacker Devin Bush

The Steelers have made a huge decision regarding the future of linebacker Devin Bush, as Pittsburgh isn’t picking up his fifth-year option. After coming into the NFL with so much promise, injuries and inconsistent play have changed things drastically for the former Michigan star.

“Steelers declined to pick up the fifth-year option for Linebacker Devin Bush, per source,” tweeted Adam Schefter of ESPN. “He now will be playing on an expiring contract.”

Moreover, the former Michigan Wolverines linebacker tore his ACL in 2020, and his return to the field last season wasn’t as triumphant as Pittsburgh hoped. Bush started 14 games, accumulating 70 tackles, two sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery.

Continuing, Bush’s best season was in 2019, when he was fresh out of college as a rookie. That season, he showed immense potential, amassing 109 total tackles with two picks and a sack.

The former No. 10-overall pick signed a four-year, $18.8 million deal after the 2019 NFL Draft. Now, Devin Bush will have to prove worthy of either an extension or the franchise-tag if he wants to remain in Pittsburgh.

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While Devin Bush may be on his last legs in Pittsburgh, newly-minted Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett saw his dreams play out in real life on Thursday night. The hometown Steelers called his name during the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, keeping him at Heinz Field for the foreseeable future.

On Sunday morning, the official Steelers Twitter account posted a video of their new franchise quarterback touring through the facilities. They also stopped on the Panthers’ side, going from the past to his new future. Pickett was able to talk about each side and what his feelings were after being drafted by the Steelers.

“It’s an unbelievable feeling,” Pickett said. “I really can’t put it into words, it still hasn’t been 24 hours yet. Really just been enjoying it with my family. Hopped on a plane and now, meeting all new people so it’s been great.”

You can watch the full video here.

Pittsburgh selected Pickett with the No. 20 overall pick, making him the first quarterback taken off the board in the class. In fact, he was the only one picked in the first round. The hometown team is taking a big risk on Pickett, hoping he can bring the quarterback stability they have had for years.