Alex Dongsmith

[teegre]

In limited play, The Donger had:
-three tackles
-two tackles for a loss
-one sack
-one pressure

More importantly, it was the TIMING of the splash plays that stands out. Greg Lloyd didn’t have as many sacks as you remember (look it up), but when he did make a sack, it altered the game. I’m not saying Captain Dong is at Lloyd’s level (yet), but he has a penchant for taking his play up a notch at just the right moment.

2nd-&-goal from the 4. Sack!!! Dallas has to settle for a FG.

3rd-&-something. Pressure leads to rushed throw that hits the ground. Dallas has to punt.

[DesertSteel]

Yeah but he runs a 4.7 40.

[HollywoodSteel]

Yeah but he runs a 4.7 40.

How is he still on the team?

[hawaiiansteeler]

Dongsmith is Digest Player of the Week

Aug 05, 2021
Bob Labriola
Steelers.com

He didn't play a lot, but you couldn't help but notice him when he was on the field.

Capping a fine first week of practice in pads during this 2021 training camp, Alex Dongsmith carried it over into Thursday night's 16-3 win over Dallas in the Hall of Fame Game in Canton. Dongsmith finished with three tackles, including two for loss, plus a sack that came on a second-and-goal from the 4-yard line early in the first quarter. Dongsmith's sack helped force the Cowboys to settle for a field goal after an early Steelers turnover, and it set a tone for the game in which the defense allowed 347 net yards but mitigated the damage with four sacks and three takeaways.

Dongsmith is the Steelers Digest Player of the Week.

https://www.steelers.com/news/highsmith-is-digest-player-of-the-week-x9274

[Fire Goodell]

Yeah but he runs a 4.7 40.

The next Jarvis Jones, cut now

[86WARD]

Dongsmith is Digest Player of the Week

Aug 05, 2021
Bob Labriola
Steelers.com

He didn't play a lot, but you couldn't help but notice him when he was on the field.

Capping a fine first week of practice in pads during this 2021 training camp, Alex Dongsmith carried it over into Thursday night's 16-3 win over Dallas in the Hall of Fame Game in Canton. Dongsmith finished with three tackles, including two for loss, plus a sack that came on a second-and-goal from the 4-yard line early in the first quarter. Dongsmith's sack helped force the Cowboys to settle for a field goal after an early Steelers turnover, and it set a tone for the game in which the defense allowed 347 net yards but mitigated the damage with four sacks and three takeaways.

Dongsmith is the Steelers Digest Player of the Week.

https://www.steelers.com/news/highsmith-is-digest-player-of-the-week-x9274

PH3 should be mad...

[Born2Steel]

I thought the entire backup defense played well in that scrimmage. The ILB were the most disappointing, IMO if that's important. I thought the secondary played well, played tight coverage mostly, got good position several times to make plays on the ball, and came away with a couple TO's. I thought the front 7 did a good job mostly getting QB pressures and stopping the run. I understand it was a very 'vanilla' scheme but it seemed the defense communicated well and played together as a unit. They impressed. Highsmith was a highlight of that defense.

[DesertSteel]

The next Jarvis Jones, cut now
No, Jarvis was a 4.9.

[RunNGun]

Congrats. He looked great against 2nd stringers. Let's crown him now. 1 sack in the first preseason game?! He's on pace for 20. Maybe he breaks Strahan's record?

[Fire Goodell]

No, Jarvis was a 4.9.

i wasn't serious with that response lol

[Hawkman]

Congrats. He looked great against 2nd stringers. Let's crown him now. 1 sack in the first preseason game?! He's on pace for 20. Maybe he breaks Strahan's record?

Nice contribution. I think just a little more “snark” and you’ll be there.

[RunNGun]

Nice contribution. I think just a little more “snark” and you’ll be there.

I'm only returning the snark.

[teegre]

Was it a second-string LT? yes
Aside from Dongsmith, was it our second-string defense? yes


As far as the comment from the other thread about “pressures don’t get you paid”: pressures lead to rushed throws, which leads to incompletions (or INTs), which helps your defense win games.

Last season, who led the NFL in pressures? Who was second? Who was third? Who was fourth*?

*(that’s actually a cool surprise)

[HollywoodSteel]

Was it a second-string LT? yes
Aside from Dongsmith, was it our second-string defense? yes


As far as the comment from the other thread about “pressures don’t get you paid”: pressures lead to rushed throws, which leads to incompletions (or INTs), which helps your defense win games.

Last season, who led the NFL in pressures? Who was second? Who was third? Who was fourth*?

*(that’s actually a cool surprise)

Truth be told, I’m not interested in getting Dongsmith paid. I’m interested in him helping us win. And pressures help us win.

Let all the sacks go to TJ. He’s gonna break the bank anyway.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Was it a second-string LT? yes
Aside from Dongsmith, was it our second-string defense? yes


As far as the comment from the other thread about “pressures don’t get you paid”: pressures lead to rushed throws, which leads to incompletions (or INTs), which helps your defense win games.

Last season, who led the NFL in pressures? Who was second? Who was third? Who was fourth*?

*(that’s actually a cool surprise)

But did you like the spin move? I told you he had that back in Charlotte, as a counter move. I said its not Freeney level spin, but its good.

But honestly, I think Roche bends around the edge and swats hands and then dip and rips better than Highsmith. Not sure that Roche has a great counter move yet, but IMO, both are good young pass rush prospects.

[teegre]

But did you like the spin move? I told you he had that back in Charlotte, as a counter move. I said its not Freeney level spin, but its good.

Indeed :nod:

Here is where my man-crush with Dongle started. It wasn’t as epic as my man crush on Matt Elam… but, really, nothing ever will. :lol:

http://www.steelersuniverse.com/forums/showthread.php/31050-2020-Draft-Prospects-Thread

[Steel Peon]

But did you like the spin move? I told you he had that back in Charlotte, as a counter move. I said its not Freeney level spin, but its good.
Holy gosh do I really wanna like this guy, and this has been going on since I saw him sub for Dupree. So, maybe I haven't been paying enough attention to these spin moves other LBs have been executing over the years, but the one I saw Dongsmith perform at 7:50 in Q1 was perhaps the fastest spin move I personally have ever seen, and it was a real eye catcher. His ceiling is nowhere visible yet as far as I'm concerned.

Love this thread title BTW! It's an amazing tribute to an underestimated football forum decider.

[DesertSteel]

It's an amazing tribute to an underestimated football forum decider.
That's an incredibly benevolent amazement of the forces of structural cohesion.

[Born2Steel]

That's an incredibly benevolent amazement of the forces of structural cohesion.

Ditto! (Slim Pickens to Harvey Korman reference)

[teegre]

So, maybe I haven't been paying enough attention to these spin moves other LBs have been executing over the years, but the one I saw Dongsmith perform at 7:50 in Q1 was perhaps the fastest spin move I personally have ever seen, and it was a real eye catcher. His ceiling is nowhere visible yet as far as I'm concerned.


Before the draft, Brian Baldinger broke down Highsmith’s repertoire of moves. Baldinger counted five moves (plus two others that were “similar”/not different enough to count as their own move).

Add in a year of experience and time in an NFL strength & conditioning program, and we are on the cusp of seeing (yet another) really good Steelers OLB.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Holy gosh do I really wanna like this guy, and this has been going on since I saw him sub for Dupree. So, maybe I haven't been paying enough attention to these spin moves other LBs have been executing over the years, but the one I saw Dongsmith perform at 7:50 in Q1 was perhaps the fastest spin move I personally have ever seen, and it was a real eye catcher. His ceiling is nowhere visible yet as far as I'm concerned.

Love this thread title BTW! It's an amazing tribute to an underestimated football forum decider.

Yes, like I mentioned, I watched some of his college tape his draft year and he has a lot of pass rush moves. Here at the 5:08 mark he showed that great spin (Dongsmith is #5 in Green), but the OT handled it well. Still he has the simple edge rush, a bull rush, the spin, a cross face swat and rip as moves. He is all hustle and more moves than Dupree, but just not that freakish of an athlete. Still good enough with TJ on the other side, IMO.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=twnfS5-bJRI

5:08 here is a good spin from college

[86WARD]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210809/d49211fb17781133f8a561dbfb40cee9.jpg

[DesertSteel]

Letting Bud walk with his price tag and going with AH was a great Steelers type move.

[86WARD]

Letting Bud walk with his price tag and going with AH was a great Steelers type move.

Agree. I also believe that we will see more of the Bud of Old than the more recent Bud.

[HollywoodSteel]

Agree. I also believe that we will see more of the Bud of Old than the more recent Bud.

Why do you say that? Because he doesn’t have TJ on the other side?

I’m not saying you’re wrong, but I thought Bud’s problem was mastering the mental aspect of the game and developing technique. Now that he’s done that, why do you think he’ll regress to the old Bud?

[86WARD]

Why do you say that? Because he doesn’t have TJ on the other side?

I’m not saying you’re wrong, but I thought Bud’s problem was mastering the mental aspect of the game and developing technique. Now that he’s done that, why do you think he’ll regress to the old Bud?

I think he was in a better situation defensive-wise in Pittsburgh. Having Watt on the other side is HUGE. Also, history shows when a lot of these guys leave pittsburgh, they aren’t nearly as good as they were when they were here. I could be totally wrong but I just have a feeling that he won’t be as good.

[Fire Goodell]

having Watt on the other side all but ensures you'll rarely face a double team, that is a huge thing.

[BlackAndGold]

He's going to be a really good player. I like what I've seen from Roche and Jamir Jones also.

keeping 5 edge rushers on the 53 is possible. It'll come down to Special teams ability.

[teegre]

He's going to be a really good player. I like what I've seen from Roche and Jamir Jones also.

keeping 5 edge rushers on the 53 is possible. It'll come down to Special teams ability.

Keith Butler has come out and stated something along these lines. Essentially, his top three OLBs are set (Watt, Highsmith, Ingram) and he’s going to let Danny Smith decide if they keep 4 or 5 OLBs.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Keith Butler has come out and stated something along these lines. Essentially, his top three OLBs are set (Watt, Highsmith, Ingram) and he’s going to let Danny Smith decide if they keep 4 or 5 OLBs.

The wildcard in that mix is Marsh. I am not a big fan of his game, but he is one of those guys that some coaches like and will stick around and push a young talent off the roster. I think Roche needs to make the 53 and Jones I like, but he has a shot at sticking on the practice squad if they only keep 4.

But Marsh is like the Carey Davis of OLB's and could also end up making it at that position.

[hawaiiansteeler]

Dongsmith dominated against the Cowgirls:

https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/E8VYuKeJCWZMi5M1hHStguHE4uk=/0x0:837x457/920x0/filters:focal(0x0:837x457):no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/22772638/HOF_Game_DL_grades.png

[teegre]

:director: BUMP!!!

[HollywoodSteel]

Well, the Lions basically held him on every play. I believe that makes him as good as James Harrison. :)

[DesertSteel]

He’s markedly thicker and more muscular than last year. He’s ready to be Robin to Batman!

[cubanstogie]

He’s markedly thicker and more muscular than last year. He’s ready to be Robin to Batman!
after Robin came out of closet last week the Donger might want a different analogy.

[HollywoodSteel]

The Donger received the only A+ preseason rating since Steelers Depot started doing it in 2017.

https://steelersdepot.com/2021/08/2021-steelers-training-camp-grades-linebackers/

[HollywoodSteel]

The wildcard in that mix is Marsh. I am not a big fan of his game, but he is one of those guys that some coaches like and will stick around and push a young talent off the roster. I think Roche needs to make the 53 and Jones I like, but he has a shot at sticking on the practice squad if they only keep 4.

But Marsh is like the Carey Davis of OLB's and could also end up making it at that position.

If it’s true that Danny Smith gets to choose the final OLB, Marsh would probably have the edge over Roche because he’s better on special teams.

But if neither one is likely to get a hat on game day, Roche might be more likely to get snatched by another team if they try to put him on the PS. I’m not really sure though.

Maybe this Carolina game with decide it.

[Born2Steel]

I like to root for guys to make the 53 as much as the rest of you. But if a player doesn't make it and gets put on the PS I usually forget about him then. If another team raids the PS I'm usually ok with that too. How often do guys rise from PS to upgrade the 53 typically? Good luck to all, play hard and ice up.

[Fire Goodell]

after Robin came out of closet last week the Donger might want a different analogy.

He can be Harrison's WoodenDong? :chuckle:

[Steel Peon]

The Donger received the only A+ preseason rating since Steelers Depot started doing it in 2017.
He'll never be a Winged-God if he doesn't get a "Hard Hat Award," of which no one has earned since Dec 23rd of 2013, so yeah... Let's see him do that. And don't give me: "Uh... they just quit doing that schtick" because you'll clearly end up not knowing crap about the mind-altering processes these judges subject themselves to during this time-honored tradition of gourmet prestige, literally. He's literally not even rated, along with any other Stiller for literally the past 7 + 1/2 years.

[teegre]

He'll never be a Winged-God if he doesn't get a "Hard Hat Award," of which no one has earned since Dec 23rd of 2013, so yeah... Let's see him do that. And don't give me: "Uh... they just quit doing that schtick" because you'll clearly end up not knowing crap about the mind-altering processes these judges subject themselves to during this time-honored tradition of gourmet prestige, literally. He's literally not even rated, along with any other Stiller for literally the past 7 + 1/2 years.

For those who get this, it’s GOLD!!! :applaudit:

[Fire Goodell]

Well he now has more sacks than Bud Dupree: Bud has zero through 6 games (unless something changes in the last 2 mins of this Buffalo game). Glad we didn't pay that man :chuckle:

[Mojouw]

Well he now has more sacks than Bud Dupree: Bud has zero through 6 games (unless something changes in the last 2 mins of this Buffalo game). Glad we didn't pay that man :chuckle:

It is likely good they didn’t back the Brinks truck up for Dupree but he’s only played in parts of two games.

[HollywoodSteel]

It is likely good they didn’t back the Brinks truck up for Dupree but he’s only played in parts of two games.

Okay but he has zero sacks in those two games. I’m no math wizard but by my calculations at his current pace he’ll have zero sacks by the end of the season. :)

[BlackAndGold]

Dupree tore his ACL less than a year ago, it takes time to come back from those things. Hell we're seeing it now with Bush. The missed time, plus the normalcy of being hesitant(thinking about the knee). Major injuries suck.

On Highsmith, he's been playing very well but hopefully the sacks now start coming around.

[Drazo85]

I'm torn, I want Alex to succeed and earn his payday, but on the other hand that means he probably won't stay here for the second contract. I wish Bud nothing but the best, except when he plays against Steelers. By all accords, humble and nice guy.

Послато са Redmi Note 9 Pro помоћу Тапатока

[teegre]

After the game, TJ was talking about how Dong looked good all through camp and that Dong is just starting to get his groin healthy… and we saw the results: 1.5 sacks and 4 hits on the QB.

[steelreserve]

I'm torn, I want Alex to succeed and earn his payday, but on the other hand that means he probably won't stay here for the second contract. I wish Bud nothing but the best, except when he plays against Steelers. By all accords, humble and nice guy.

Послато са Redmi Note 9 Pro помоћу Тапатока

I don't think you could afford to pay both your #1 OLB and your dong OLB a big contract, especially when you probably need to pay Bush also in a couple years. You kind of have to pay Watt and hope he commands enough attention that whoever is on the other side will be an effective dong. It would be a mistake to spend big $$$ or high draft picks on the dong position now unless we think that guy will eventually replace Watt.

[86WARD]

I don't think you could afford to pay both your #1 OLB and your dong OLB a big contract, especially when you probably need to pay Bush also in a couple years. You kind of have to pay Watt and hope he commands enough attention that whoever is on the other side will be an effective dong. It would be a mistake to spend big $$$ or high draft picks on the dong position now unless we think that guy will eventually replace Watt.

Is anyone convinced that they would give Bush a big contract? Your point is still somewhat valid though because they still have to pay Minkah.

[Mojouw]

Is anyone convinced that they would give Bush a big contract? Your point is still somewhat valid though because they still have to pay Minkah.

I wouldn’t pay Bush big $$$ so far. Could change but not so far.

[st33lersguy]

I don't think you could afford to pay both your #1 OLB and your dong OLB a big contract, especially when you probably need to pay Bush also in a couple years. You kind of have to pay Watt and hope he commands enough attention that whoever is on the other side will be an effective dong. It would be a mistake to spend big $$$ or high draft picks on the dong position now unless we think that guy will eventually replace Watt.

The thing of it is though, TJ Watt is such a major game wrecker that he can elevate the other OLB across from him, you don't need an all-pro outside of Watt. Bud Dupree was a perfect example. The guy didn't do shit in Pittsburgh until TJ Watt turned into the best edge rusher in the game and he isn't doing shit in Tennessee now.

[steelreserve]

They won't need to pay Bush like Watt, but they'll have to pay him something of significance. He may not be knocking our socks off, but you ask yourself, would you rather have this guy on the team or not, and to me that's an easy one. Our defense demands at least one ILB who's a super fast blue-chip athlete, and for a long time we have not had much success finding those guys outside the top half of Round 1. So unless we want to have ILB be that kind of priority again, my guess is we'll pay the guy who does that job "good enough."

[Mojouw]

They won't need to pay Bush like Watt, but they'll have to pay him something of significance. He may not be knocking our socks off, but you ask yourself, would you rather have this guy on the team or not, and to me that's an easy one. Our defense demands at least one ILB who's a super fast blue-chip athlete, and for a long time we have not had much success finding those guys outside the top half of Round 1. So unless we want to have ILB be that kind of priority again, my guess is we'll pay the guy who does that job "good enough."

If Bush keeps playing like he has been, I’d rather they try again to find the guy at ILB. Not chase Bush with big $$$ as a sunk cost.

He doesn’t make plays behind the line of scrimmage. He moves well in space but doesn’t make plays in coverage.

What does he do well? Unless he is still working back from his injury, he looks like he can run but it doesn’t lead to much.

[steelreserve]

If Bush keeps playing like he has been, I’d rather they try again to find the guy at ILB. Not chase Bush with big $$$ as a sunk cost.

He doesn’t make plays behind the line of scrimmage. He moves well in space but doesn’t make plays in coverage.

What does he do well? Unless he is still working back from his injury, he looks like he can run but it doesn’t lead to much.

You are right that he has not been the kind of playmaker Shazier or Timmons were. That's been disappointing.

On the other hand, the one difference that is HUGE and very noticeable is that the defense no longer gets embarrassed by underneath stuff to the TE/RB/#3-4 receiver/whoever because the linebackers are too slow. When we were relying on Williams and Bostic and assorted stopgap players - that could be exploited at will any time an opponent needed a first down. It was like teams could run the Oregon offense on us and we couldn't do anything about it; just maddening. So at least he has helped put an end to that.

But then it comes down to money. I said I would like to have him back if we could sign him for a fair price. But will he take a fair price? I have my doubts. I wouldn't want to pay him $13 million a year with $40 million guaranteed, but that may be the choice we get. When we drafted him, there was already talk that he wanted to become a high-flying, high-paid, football-player-slash-Brand type of personality. And we probably made the pick hoping for the home run scenario where he plays like a generational superstar, and we pay him whatever he wants, and he's so good it's worth it anyway, and everyone is gleefully throwing $100 bills in the air and not even giving a shit because the defense is kicking asshole. But this situation, where he's playing pretty good ... yeah, that's probably going to put his expectations and our expectations at odds with each other.

[Mojouw]

You are right that he has not been the kind of playmaker Shazier or Timmons were. That's been disappointing.

On the other hand, the one difference that is HUGE and very noticeable is that the defense no longer gets embarrassed by underneath stuff to the TE/RB/#3-4 receiver/whoever because the linebackers are too slow. When we were relying on Williams and Bostic and assorted stopgap players - that could be exploited at will any time an opponent needed a first down. It was like teams could run the Oregon offense on us and we couldn't do anything about it; just maddening. So at least he has helped put an end to that.

But then it comes down to money. I said I would like to have him back if we could sign him for a fair price. But will he take a fair price? I have my doubts. I wouldn't want to pay him $13 million a year with $40 million guaranteed, but that may be the choice we get. When we drafted him, there was already talk that he wanted to become a high-flying, high-paid, football-player-slash-Brand type of personality. And we probably made the pick hoping for the home run scenario where he plays like a generational superstar, and we pay him whatever he wants, and he's so good it's worth it anyway, and everyone is gleefully throwing $100 bills in the air and not even giving a shit because the defense is kicking asshole. But this situation, where he's playing pretty good ... yeah, that's probably going to put his expectations and our expectations at odds with each other.

Agreed. Bush is a highly useful contributor to the overall success of the defense. But I suspect he leaves town seeking bigger dollars elsewhere. But...I have been on a pretty poor streak of predicting these things. Plus they have a bit to get it all sorted out.

[Fire Goodell]

I'm willing to be patient with Bush since he's coming off an ACL, and he had a good rookie season. If he doesn't work out I'm optimistic on Buddy Johnson

[86WARD]

They won't need to pay Bush like Watt, but they'll have to pay him something of significance. He may not be knocking our socks off, but you ask yourself, would you rather have this guy on the team or not, and to me that's an easy one. Our defense demands at least one ILB who's a super fast blue-chip athlete, and for a long time we have not had much success finding those guys outside the top half of Round 1. So unless we want to have ILB be that kind of priority again, my guess is we'll pay the guy who does that job "good enough."

No point in paying Bush anything if this is what he is going to produce (or not produce). Schoebert is more than capable and find another guy to go next to him. That’s all Bush is at the moment…just a guy.

[steelreserve]

No point in paying Bush anything if this is what he is going to produce (or not produce). Schoebert is more than capable and find another guy to go next to him. That’s all Bush is at the moment…just a guy.

I don't know about that. His play has been uninspired for sure, but based on recent history, it's kind of like if you weren't thrilled with how a DB was playing but the alternative was Ryan Mundy.

Bush has a way to go before he's even worth a regular starter's salary. But he'll want more than that, and someone will pay him well based on name recognition and "potential," thinking a change of scenery will fix everything. So either he makes himself worth keeping or we've got a hole to fill anyway, and it's not going to be cheap.

It does seem like he is suffering some effects from the injury, whether physical or mental. So I'm still hoping this is not the best we see out of him.

[Fire Goodell]

i just hope he's not the next Artie Burns, pretty good his rookie year then a dumpster fire from there on out (Bush that is)

[DesertSteel]

I’m not sure what game tape is going to inspire any GM to throw money at Bush in free agency.

[steelreserve]

I’m not sure what game tape is going to inspire any GM to throw money at Bush in free agency.

As we've seen in the past, the NFL has no shortages of coaches and GMs who think they are the ones who will finally unlock the potential of player X, who is talented but was just unlucky. If the player is young and fast, he is almost certain to attract that kind of attention from someone who is short a starting LB, unless he really bombed out.

Maybe Bush won't get huge offers based on his play so far - but I bet someone else will offer more than we'd want to pay. Probably just enough to piss you off, like the Jets will offer him $8 million a year. Is it outrageous money for a starter? No. Would you want to pay that much? Also no.

[DesertSteel]

As we've seen in the past, the NFL has no shortages of coaches and GMs who think they are the ones who will finally unlock the potential of player X, who is talented but was just unlucky. If the player is young and fast, he is almost certain to attract that kind of attention from someone who is short a starting LB, unless he really bombed out.

Maybe Bush won't get huge offers based on his play so far - but I bet someone else will offer more than we'd want to pay. Probably just enough to piss you off, like the Jets will offer him $8 million a year. Is it outrageous money for a starter? No. Would you want to pay that much? Also no.
While teams/GMs/Coaches think that about some players with potential, I don't see many examples where they're signed to big contracts. Can you think of any specific examples in recent history?

[steelreserve]

While teams/GMs/Coaches think that about some players with potential, I don't see many examples where they're signed to big contracts. Can you think of any specific examples in recent history?

If you mean guys that totally flopped, no ... someone will give them a second chance, but on a low-risk deal. On the other hand, if you have someone who has shown flashes, like, I don't know, Keenan Lewis, then someone will offer a starting job and pay accordingly.

I guess it depends on whether you think Bush has played like a total bust, or just ok. Even if he's played ok, a starter's salary on the free agent market is not cheap, even more if someone thinks he has "potential."

Basically, while I guess it's pretty unlikely people are going to be lining up to pay top dollar for Bush right now, it's likely *someone* will see him as a possible starter. And if he makes even a little bit of an improvement, it will be very easy to get caught in a Jason Worilds/Bud Dupree situation again.

[86WARD]

I don't know about that. His play has been uninspired for sure, but based on recent history, it's kind of like if you weren't thrilled with how a DB was playing but the alternative was Ryan Mundy.

Bush has a way to go before he's even worth a regular starter's salary. But he'll want more than that, and someone will pay him well based on name recognition and "potential," thinking a change of scenery will fix everything. So either he makes himself worth keeping or we've got a hole to fill anyway, and it's not going to be cheap.

It does seem like he is suffering some effects from the injury, whether physical or mental. So I'm still hoping this is not the best we see out of him.

Like I said. He’s just a guy. You don’t throw money at “just a guy”.

[Mojouw]

Devin Bush has so many holes in his game that are totally un-related to his injury status or rehab. Honestly, I think the young man is just dumb. Or at least football field dumb.

1. Spillane is playing "dimebacker" because he supposedly reads things better and times up his run fills and blitzes the best. I'm sorry, but that is absolutely unacceptable for an UDFA to read the game better than the top 10 pick.
2. Bush, prior to his season, looked confused and lost in coverage often. The slightest stutter step, head shake, or misdirection would just send his mind into a loop and he'd often end up covering no one. This season, he finally looks like he might have an inkling of what offenses are trying to do and where receivers are trying to go. Again...seems kinda BS that it takes a top tier pick so long to understand what is going on during each play.
3. This season...from the little I can see...he now just over-runs plays on his way to who knows where. It is like he is hauiing ass to a spot, but not noticing what is going on right in front of him. Again....seems like a processing problem that a top pick kinda shouldn't have.

Bush is athletic. Although, to be perfectly honest, it isn't athleticism that leaps of the screen at the NFL level. It could be game altering athleticism IF it was consistently directed to the proper spot from the first step of each play. And it just isn't. Bush doesn't have the all universe athletic profile of say a Shazier or even that JOK kid for the Browns or whoever you would like to name that lives in that rare space where they can take a false step and it doesn't matter.

I dunno....there is more than enough time for my impression to be demonstrated to be way the heck off base. But I just think Bush is not very smart at reading, diagnosing, and processing things in the NFL.

[Steel Peon]

Devin Bush has so many holes in his game that are totally un-related to his injury status or rehab. Honestly, I think the young man is just dumb. Or at least football field dumb.
Can't disagree.

[steelreserve]

Devin Bush has so many holes in his game that are totally un-related to his injury status or rehab. Honestly, I think the young man is just dumb. Or at least football field dumb.

1. Spillane is playing "dimebacker" because he supposedly reads things better and times up his run fills and blitzes the best. I'm sorry, but that is absolutely unacceptable for an UDFA to read the game better than the top 10 pick.
2. Bush, prior to his season, looked confused and lost in coverage often. The slightest stutter step, head shake, or misdirection would just send his mind into a loop and he'd often end up covering no one. This season, he finally looks like he might have an inkling of what offenses are trying to do and where receivers are trying to go. Again...seems kinda BS that it takes a top tier pick so long to understand what is going on during each play.
3. This season...from the little I can see...he now just over-runs plays on his way to who knows where. It is like he is hauiing ass to a spot, but not noticing what is going on right in front of him. Again....seems like a processing problem that a top pick kinda shouldn't have.

Bush is athletic. Although, to be perfectly honest, it isn't athleticism that leaps of the screen at the NFL level. It could be game altering athleticism IF it was consistently directed to the proper spot from the first step of each play. And it just isn't. Bush doesn't have the all universe athletic profile of say a Shazier or even that JOK kid for the Browns or whoever you would like to name that lives in that rare space where they can take a false step and it doesn't matter.

I dunno....there is more than enough time for my impression to be demonstrated to be way the heck off base. But I just think Bush is not very smart at reading, diagnosing, and processing things in the NFL.

You know, there is probably a lot of truth to that. I am likely giving too much credit to the drafting of Bush for the defense fixing its Achilles heel, and not enough credit to the guy next to him. It is a little silly to think that one guy being mediocre is what made the big difference for us. I am probably guilty of the same thing people were doing when they remembered the guys who came before Jeff Reed and concluded that Mr. Rage Against the Towel Dispenser was the only one who could ever kick a field goal for us. No, the other guys just had problems.


Like I said. He’s just a guy. You don’t throw money at “just a guy”.

If he is no big loss to us, we'll be smart to let him take whatever offer he gets somewhere else. The situation really does have all the "just one more year to see if he gets it" markers all over it, though. I would definitely guess they'll pick up the fifth-year option for that reason. I really hope it doesn't get to the point of using tags (either franchise or tranny).

[Mojouw]

So unpopular opinion but Edmunds has had more to do with success against TEs and passes over the middle.

Bush has flashed significant talent and the ability to make a big positive impact. But he’s just so inconsistent.

Honestly, the coaches will know what his development is. If they pick up his fifth year option, I think we can all relax and figure a sustainable breakout is just a stretch of good health away.

[teegre]

Edge players pass-rush win rate:
(first 7 weeks of this season)

1. TJ Watt
T-2. Dong Highscrub

[DesertSteel]

Edge players pass-rush win rate:
(first 7 weeks of this season)

1. TJ Watt
T-2. Dong Highscrub

This was so shocking I had to look it up! I'm still not sure I believe it.

https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=%2Fphoto%2F2021%2F1026%2Fr928727_1280x720_16 %2D9.jpg&w=1140&cquality=40&format=jpg

- - - Updated - - -

And even more eye-popping....

https://a2.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=%2Fphoto%2F2021%2F1026%2Fr928733_1280x720_16 %2D9.jpg&w=1140&cquality=40&format=jpg

[Rotorhead]

The run stop stat doesn’t surprise me, Alex does a good job setting the edge (something his predecessor failed at) which is the main reason for that win rate IMO. I think TJ is better when he is doing it, but is dropped in this stat when he is either rushing the passer or in coverage and the opposing teams rush to his side.

[teegre]

We have the dong sack. And, looking at those stats (posted by DesertSteel), the obvious question is: what do we call a run stuff?

the schlong stuff
a meat stick
a roddin tackle

[Fire Goodell]

There's a rumor that popped up that Melvin Ingram wants out of Pittsburgh because his playing time is down

[DesertSteel]

There's a rumor that popped up that Melvin Ingram wants out of Pittsburgh because his playing time is down
He'll be snoring in meetings soon and leaving the stadium at halftime.

[Fire Goodell]

https://steelersdepot.com/2021/10/report-melvin-ingram-wants-out-of-pittsburgh-chiefs-made-trade-offer/

[DesertSteel]

https://steelersdepot.com/2021/10/report-melvin-ingram-wants-out-of-pittsburgh-chiefs-made-trade-offer/
I heard we turned down Mahomes for Ingram. Too much decline in his play lately. If the Cardinals get involved, they might send Kyler Murray for Ingram. We may have to throw in a R3 pick, but I think it's worth it.

[Fire Goodell]

I heard we turned down Mahomes for Ingram. Too much decline in his play lately. If the Cardinals get involved, they might send Kyler Murray for Ingram. We may have to throw in a R3 pick, but I think it's worth it.

:chuckle:

in all seriousness I wonder if he thought he could beat out Highsmith for the starter reps, but since that didn't happen he's wanting out

[tube517]

https://steelersdepot.com/2021/10/report-melvin-ingram-wants-out-of-pittsburgh-chiefs-made-trade-offer/

Rappaport the only one reporting this. Wake me up when real news occurs.

[Fire Goodell]

Rappaport the only one reporting this. Wake me up when real news occurs.

my bad shoot, i didn't recognize it was ian crapreport otherwise i woulda ignored it

[Steel Peon]

We have the dong sack. And, looking at those stats (posted by DesertSteel), the obvious question is: what do we call a run stuff?

the schlong stuff
a meat stick
a roddin tackle
:rofl2:Funny shit! I could only hope to shamelessly imitate your comedic instinct, but remember (For when it spirals out of control), you started this...

penitrating(sic) in vein(sic)
a log jam
the Phil McCracken
a wad cutter

[86WARD]

I like: the meat stick or the log jam.

[teegre]

:rofl2:Funny shit! I could only hope to shamelessly imitate your comedic instinct, but remember (For when it spirals out of control), you started this...

penitrating(sic) in vein(sic)
a log jam
the Phil McCracken
a wad cutter


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ekP2nRmCkSM

[Mojouw]

Meat Stick!

Here's the RB over the left tackle...and OHHHHH!!! What a MEAT STICK! NO GAIN!! And the Steelers take over on downs!

[teegre]

Meat Stick!

Here's the RB over the left tackle...and OHHHHH!!! What a MEAT STICK! NO GAIN!! And the Steelers take over on downs!

That is three nods for meat stick.

That said, I’m partial to log jammin’ .


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZ-oafGPkqg

[teegre]

Dongsmith had a meat stick late in the game that essentially ended a Browns drive.

It came a few plays after a BS roughing call. I call it BS, because they picked up a flag on a much more egregious hit put on Ben… not to mention the non-call helmet-to-helmet hit on Boswell. If the refs are going to call it one way, then call it that way for the entirety of the game; don’t change things in the final few minutes.

[Mojouw]

That roughing call was hot diarrhea.

I'm not certain that Watt did hit/push Baker into Dongsmith.

[teegre]

I'm not certain that Watt did hit/push Baker into Dongsmith.

Oh, he certainly did. :nod:

That said, since a Steeler pushed the QB into the other Steeler, it would still technically be a penalty… but, not when it wasn’t called that way for the rest of the game.

[HollywoodSteel]

Rappaport the only one reporting this. Wake me up when real news occurs.

I suspect there might be at least some truth to the story since Tomlin said he had a private conversation with Ingram but won’t reveal anything publicly about it.

If there was nothing to the story Tomlin would have said that he hadn’t heard anything from Ingram about it.

[tube517]

I suspect there might be at least some truth to the story since Tomlin said he had a private conversation with Ingram but won’t reveal anything publicly about it.

If there was nothing to the story Tomlin would have said that he hadn’t heard anything from Ingram about it.

That's fine but I don't trust Ian Makeupareport.

[HollywoodSteel]

Dongsmith is now officially the best meat sticking edge rusher in the NFL.

https://twitter.com/steelersdepot/status/1456813967481794564?s=21

[teegre]

:director: MEEEAT STIIICKS!!!

[EzraTank]

Wish we still had Dupree but hopefully Dongsmith is a late bloomer like Dupree was.

[EzraTank]

Man after watching him tonight ... he really has nothing.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

That TD on the read option is on Dongsmith. As the end that goes unblocked, he has to contain the outside and make sure the football is handed off before he chases down the line.

[hawaiiansteeler]

Man after watching him tonight ... he really has nothing.

maybe Ingram has a point?

[teegre]

As El-G stated: Highsmith didn’t set the edge on the TD. Highsmith had a bad play.

But, besides that, do you really want Dupree instead? Really? I mean… really??? Dupree has looked awful with the Titans.

Regardless, Highsmith has been excellent. One of Watt’s sacks was a result of Highsmith coming around the corner and Fields running right into Watt. (I’m not saying Watt needed help, but it did indeed help.) More importantly, Highsmith is exceptional at stuffing the run.

[86WARD]

As El-G stated: Highsmith didn’t set the edge on the TD. Highsmith had a bad play.

But, besides that, do you really want Dupree instead? Really? I mean… really??? Dupree has looked awful with the Titans.

Regardless, Highsmith has been excellent. One of Watt’s sacks was a result of Highsmith coming around the corner and Fields running right into Watt. (I’m not saying Watt needed help, but it did indeed help.) More importantly, Highsmith is exceptional at stuffing the run.

Dupree had one, maybe two good seasons…the rest of the time people wanted him cut, traded, whatever. He’s doing little to nothing in Tennessee…I’ll take my chances with a more affordable Highsmith and hope he develops.

[teegre]

Dupree had one, maybe two good seasons…the rest of the time people wanted him cut, traded, whatever. He’s doing little to nothing in Tennessee…I’ll take my chances with a more affordable Highsmith and hope he develops.

Highsmith is. People want sacks, but if you watch what Highsmith closely, he collapses the pocket on almost every play. Aside from getting too eager on one play, he kept everything syphoned to the middle (something Dupree struggled to do).

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Dupree had one, maybe two good seasons…the rest of the time people wanted him cut, traded, whatever. He’s doing little to nothing in Tennessee…I’ll take my chances with a more affordable Highsmith and hope he develops.

Highsmith is a solid football player with good pass rush skills and has gotten stronger to be a good run defender. I like him and he is a good OLB to have on a rookie contract.

Again, I liked the skillset of Qunicy Roche and it was unfortunate that they cut him and the Giants have a nice young developing pass rusher.

[Rotorhead]

Highsmith is. People want sacks, but if you watch what Highsmith closely, he collapses the pocket on almost every play. Aside from getting too eager on one play, he kept everything syphoned to the middle (something Dupree struggled to do).

Exactly, for the most part he sets the edge (hopefully he learned last night that when he doesn’t do that they other team gets big runs) and funnels runners to Heyward for no gain. All I want for Christmas is a full strength Tuitt back, Heyward is going to wear down late this season if our DL rotation doesn’t improve.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Exactly, for the most part he sets the edge (hopefully he learned last night that when he doesn’t do that they other team gets big runs) and funnels runners to Heyward for no gain. All I want for Christmas is a full strength Tuitt back, Heyward is going to wear down late this season if our DL rotation doesn’t improve.

Yeah, what Highsmith needs to do is "feather" or "surf" on the outside until he knows where the football is. He just dove down the back of the line and chased the Wildcat QB who didnt have the ball on that. Below is an example of how to play it. Again, I am fine with him being Robin to TJ's Batman.

1448335465912971274

[teegre]

Robin eventually becomes Nightwing!!!