The Pittsburgh Steelers have released veteran defensive back Josiah Scott, as reported by Jeremy Fowler of ESPN reports. This decision comes after only four training camp practices, as the team enters the second week of their final offseason program.
Scott, who was a fourth-round selection in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars, initially joined the Steelers’ practice squad for the 2023 season. He later signed with the Philadelphia Eagles’ 53-man roster just before Week 7. In that game, he recorded his only defensive snaps of the season, allowing a catch on each of his four targets in coverage but yielding only a total of 11 yards. The Steelers subsequently signed Scott to a reserve/future contract on January 23.
This season, Scott was vying for a chance to secure a slot cornerback position within the Steelers’ lineup. Chandon Sullivan, a veteran cornerback and primary slot option last season, moved on in free agency during this offseason, creating an opportunity for competition. Sullivan has yet to find a new team.
Currently, UDFA Beanie Bishop seems to be leading in his bid for a starting role. He has been taking most of the first-team reps out of the slot during training camp’s initial four practices, according to Jack Sperry from Chat Sports shared.
At just 24 years old, Bishop played four seasons at Western Kentucky and one at Minnesota before finishing his eligibility at WVU. In the recent season (2023), he achieved four interceptions and recorded 14 pass breakups while allowing an NFL passer rating of just 78.1 against him predominantly while playing on the boundary.
Pittsburgh Steelers Release Defensive Back Josiah Scott After Training Camp Competition
Overview of Josiah Scott’s Time with the Steelers
Josiah Scott, a talented defensive back, has officially been released by the Pittsburgh Steelers following a competitive training camp. Scott was initially drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars but later found his way to Pittsburgh, where he aimed to make an impact in the defensive lineup. His journey in the NFL has been marked by determination and resilience, but the stiff competition during training camp ultimately led to his release.
The Training Camp Competition
The Steelers’ training camp was characterized by an intense battle for roster spots, particularly in the defensive backfield. With the addition of key players and returning veterans, the competition was fierce. Here are some highlights of the training camp:
- Rookies vs. Veterans: The mix of seasoned players and fresh talent created a dynamic environment, pushing everyone to elevate their performance.
- Injury Updates: Various injuries among defensive backs provided opportunities for players like Scott, but the competition remained tight as players returned from injuries.
- Coaching Strategies: Head Coach Mike Tomlin implemented various drills and scrimmages specifically designed to assess players’ skills in game-like scenarios.
Performance Metrics
During the training camp, Josiah Scott showcased his abilities through a series of notable performances, though they ultimately weren’t enough to secure a spot on the final roster. Below is a table comparing his performance metrics with other contenders for the defensive back positions.
| Player | Tackles | Interceptions | Passes Defended</th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Josiah Scott | 15 | 1 | 4 |
| Akhello Witherspoon | 20 | 2 | 6 |
| Cameron Sutton | 18 | 1 | 5 |
| Tre Norwood | 17 | 0 | 3 |
Key Reasons for Release
The decision to release Josiah Scott was difficult but rooted in several factors:
- Depth of the Roster: The Steelers already have a strong lineup of defensive backs, making it challenging for Scott to find a place.
- Performance Consistency: While Scott had moments of brilliance, inconsistency in his overall performance may have played a role in the decision.
- Coaching Decisions: The coaching staff evaluated all players based on their fit within the team’s defensive strategies and schemes.
Josiah Scott’s Career Path
Before joining the Steelers, Scott’s career trajectory included:
- College Career: Josiah Scott played for Michigan State, where he was known for his ball skills and ability to read the game.
- Drafted by the Jaguars: Scott was selected in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars.
- Development and Growth: His stint with the Jaguars included valuable learning experiences, even if he faced challenges on the field.
Next Steps for Josiah Scott
Following his release, the focus for Scott shifts to finding a new team and revitalizing his career in the NFL. Here are some potential next steps:
- Practice Squad Considerations: Scott may consider signing to a practice squad, allowing him to continue training and proving himself.
- Free Agency: With his skills, Scott could draw interest from other teams looking to bolster their secondary.
- Personal Development: Offseason training and skill development will be crucial for Scott as he prepares for future opportunities.
Fan Reactions and Impact
The timing of Scott’s release has sparked various reactions among fans and analysts:
- Support from Fans: Many fans appreciated Scott’s tenacity and were hopeful he would find success elsewhere.
- Analyst Opinions: Analysts debated the decision, weighing the potential of Scott against the immediate needs of the Steelers’ roster.
Future of the Steelers’ Secondary
With Scott’s departure, the Steelers are focusing on strengthening their secondary. Here are some key aspects to monitor:
- Emerging Talents: New draft picks and young players will have opportunities to step up and fill gaps left by released players.
- Veteran Leadership: Experienced players will need to mentor younger teammates, fostering a strong unit.
- Defensive Strategy Adjustments: The coaching staff may tweak their strategies based on the strengths of the remaining players.
Conclusion
While Josiah Scott’s time with the Pittsburgh Steelers has come to an end, his journey in the NFL is far from over. The competitive nature of the league means opportunities for talented players arise frequently. Scott’s next chapter could very well be just around the corner as he seeks to demonstrate his capabilities to potential suitors. For fans, the Steelers remain a team to watch as they continue to build a formidable defensive lineup.
