The second-year cornerback had a heck of a showing
The Pittsburgh Steelers have a lot of young, hungry players in their secondary vying for position and playing time. If iron does indeed sharpen iron, it’s beginning to sharpen the play of second-year cornerback Darius Rush.
The South Carolina product looked fast all practice, and made one play in specific that stood out during seven-on-sevens. He read a quick out route perfectly from the slot and jumped on it, racing to the receiver as soon as he began to break and dove to break up the pass.
I asked Rush about the play following practice, to which he broke down what he saw.
“I figured he was gonna run a shorter route,” Rush said. “As soon as I saw he was beginning to break toward the outside I just did my best to break on the ball and prevent the completion.”
Rush also noted he feels great heading into Year Two compared to last season.
“Last year was a little chaotic for me,” Rush said. “I was with two different teams before I ended up here. And I’m grateful for [the Indianapolis Colts and Kansas City Chiefs}, but I’m happy to be here, know I’m here, and go out and compete.”
When asked about his versatility, the former Gamecock said he’ll play anywhere.
“I fell good about my versatility, man” Rush said. “I’ll play outside, I’ll play the slot, kickoff- whatever they need. When you want playing time, you gotta be willing to do everything, and I am.”
Pittsburgh has a very youthful cornerback room. Joey Porter Jr, Rush, Cory Trice, Beanie Bishop- these are all guys who are rookies or in their second years.
“We’re a young group, but in today’s league you need young, fast guys to keep up with these receivers,” Rush said. “And we definitely have that.”
Rush also touched on Donte Jackson, who he gave a lot of appreciation to as the clear veteran in the room.
“Donte has been really good with us,” Rush said. “He’s obviously the vet in the group and I know if there is anything I have questions on that I can go to him and be like ‘Hey, what would you do here, this and that.’ He’s been really good with us for sure.”
The Steelers may be young at cornerback, but the talent is not lacking. If they continue to elevate one another, this can be a special group.
