Artie Burns
Let’s start with the newcomer. Burns certainly still has the athleticism that made him a first-round selection four years ago, but his coverage skills leave much to be desired.
After starting all 16 games in 2017 with one interception, 13 pass deflections and two fumble recoveries, Burns found his way to the bench in 2018 after being replaced by Cody Sensabaugh and saw even fewer snaps last season when the Steelers signed Steven Nelson to a three-year deal last offseason to take over the starting cornerback position.
According to Pro Football Reference, Burns was targeted 25 times, giving up 16 completions in 2018, five of which went for touchdowns. Quarterbacks had a 143.2 rating when targeting the former Miami Hurricane. Those numbers only worsened in 2019, despite limited playing time. Burns was certainly burned, giving up four completions on four targets, one of which went for a score, and giving quarterbacks a perfect 158.3 rating when targeted.
Despite the numbers and falling out of favor, analysts still believe the upside with Burns is there, given his athleticism. Could a new scheme and change of scenery be the kick he needs to fully realize his potential? At only 24 years old, it’s certainly possible.
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