Former West Virginia University defensive back Beanie Bishop was recognized as the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month for October. Bishop, who joined the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent, showcased his skills by intercepting two passes from Aaron Rodgers in the Steelers’ 37-15 win over the New York Jets on Oct. 20. He followed up with a game-winning interception during Pittsburgh’s 26-18 victory over the New York Giants on Monday Night Football.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin praised Bishop, noting, “Beanie had an incredible night with his first two interceptions against a Hall of Famer like Rodgers. He’s shown tremendous growth and has never backed down from high-pressure moments. We meet every Friday to work on game situations, and he’s consistently asking good questions and improving.”
Standing 5-foot-9 and weighing 182 pounds, Bishop has been a solid starting nickel for the Steelers in place of suspended veteran Cam Sutton, who returns to the lineup on Nov. 10.
Bishop was WVU’s 13th consensus All-American in 2023 after transferring from Minnesota, leading the nation with 24 passes defended and 20 breakups, and tying for 19th in interceptions. Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, he made an impressive impact during his single season with the Mountaineers.