Fansided

3 hidden gems on the Pittsburgh Steelers roster

By Rucker Haringey

PITTSBURGH, PA - DECEMBER 01: James Washington #13 of the Pittsburgh Steelers in action against Denzel Ward #21 of the Cleveland Browns on December 1, 2019 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - DECEMBER 01: James Washington #13 of the Pittsburgh Steelers in action against Denzel Ward #21 of the Cleveland Browns on December 1, 2019 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /
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Cameron Sutton, Pittsburgh Steelers
PITTSBURGH, PA – SEPTEMBER 30: Cameron Sutton #20 of the Pittsburgh Steelers reacts after a defensive stop in the first half during the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Heinz Field on September 30, 2019 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /

2. Cameron Sutton

Smart NFL franchises understand that the nickel cornerback position is just as important as any other starting spot in the defensive backfield. That’s why the continued presence of Cam Sutton in Pittsburgh is hugely valuable for Tomlin’s defense.

He may not be an elite option on the inside, but Sutton does profile as an above-average starter. His final season PFF grade of 68.9 last season should provide a solid baseline for what the Steelers can expect from him moving forward.

The stability Sutton provides is particularly valuable given the defense’s intention to incorporate Justin Layne into a new starter on the outside this season. They can’t afford to give a ton of help to their slot corner if Layne is going to receive the proper amount of support on the perimeter.

Sutton may not make a ton of headlines for Pittsburgh this season, but he could easily turn out to be the team’s most valuable defensive starter not named T.J. Watt. If he can force a few more turnovers from the slot it could provide the Steelers a few more regular season wins.

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