Sometimes, it takes a small sample size for certain players to identify the kind of potential they have.
In his rookie season, Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Rush only saw 39 defensive snaps, the majority of them coming in their Week 9 contest against the Tennessee Titans. In the few snaps he played, Rush registered three tackles and a near interception after anticipating a throw over the middle. It may have been one play, but it was the type of play that has been his trademark as a player.
Playing for the South Carolina Gamecocks, he formed one of the top cornerback tandems in college football with current Miami Dolphin draft pick Cam Smith. In his last two years with the Gamecocks, Rush registered 15 passes defensed and three interceptions. As a senior, he set career highs in tackles and interceptions. He would finish with an overall grade of 77.9, according to Pro Football Focus.
From a physical standpoint, Rush fits the "avatar" cornerback mold with this size, length, and athleticism. Most notably, Rush's scheme versatility can be put to good use in both zone and man schemes in Teryl Austin's defense.
Though their future plans for him are unknown, the team could benefit from taking advantage of his skillset in some capacity. Even if the majority of his snaps were to come on special teams, there is still the possibility of more defensive snaps if they make the active roster.
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