Pittsburgh Steelers: 5 players who must improve for Super Bowl run

PITTSBURGH, PA - DECEMBER 31, 2017: Head coach Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers yells toward an official in the third quarter of a game on December 31, 2017 against the Cleveland Browns at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Pittsburgh won 28-24. (Photo by: 2017 Nick Cammett/Diamond Images/Getty Images) /

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PITTSBURGH, PA – DECEMBER 17: Rob Gronkowski #87 of the New England Patriots cannot come up with a catch while being defended by Artie Burns #25 of the Pittsburgh Steelers in the second half during the game at Heinz Field on December 17, 2017 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) /

3. Artie Burns

Burns has been a good player during his first two seasons in Pittsburgh, but it’s time for him to take another step forward. If he can emerge as a legitimate shutdown corner for the Steelers, their defense could make the jump from good to great.

In particular, the Pittsburgh coaching staff would like to see Burns become more of a playmaker. He only had one interception last season and that’s not good enough for a corner who sees as much action as Burns does. Forcing more turnovers should be a priority for Tomlin’s defense in 2018.

Burns has all the tools necessary to take more risks out on the edge. It’s possible that could lead to him getting burned more often, but it’s a risk worth taking. He needs to put more fear in the minds of quarterbacks throughout the league. Right now, opposing passers can hurl the ball in his direction without any real fear they’ll be picked off.

Artie Burns has to start looking more for the exceptional play instead of just making the solid play over and over again. The coaches certainly like his consistency, but quickly tackling a receiver after he catches a pass isn’t a great philosophy for a corner with Burns’ talent. He needs to break on the ball and take more chances on the outside.

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