Former Steelers fan favorite receives suspension from the NFL for violation of the league’s substances of abuse policy

He will miss the first three games of the 2026 regular season.

Rob Gregson NFL News Writer
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Jan 4, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Beanie Bishop Jr. (31) celebrates after intercepting a Cincinnati Bengals pass during the second quarter at Acrisure Stadium.
Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers are known for giving local talent a shot. Sharing a facility with the Pitt Panthers and being in proximity to the University of West Virginia, plenty of nearby talents have received their shot to shine in Pittsburgh.

Few make it past rookie minicamp, and even fewer make it past Latrobe and to the final 53-man roster. One of those players in 2024 was Beanie Bishop. The slot cornerback not only made the roster, but he also made plays as an undrafted rookie. However, he was let go following camp last offseason, joining the New Orleans Saints in December, but having yet to play for them in the regular season. Well, if that’s going to happen, he’s going to have to wait even longer.

NFL suspends Beanie Bishop 3 games for violating substances of abuse policy

“Beanie Bishop, DB, West Virginia, has been suspended by the Commissioner for the first three games of the 2026 season. He is eligible to participate in all preseason activities, including games; his suspension will take effect as of the roster reduction to 53 players.” – NFL

Bishop played in all 17 games in 2024 for the Steelers, starting in six contests and recording four interceptions. He had seven pass breakups and was used predominantly as a slot corner. He played very well in limited action.

However, the Steelers swung the big trade last offseason to acquire Jalen Ramsey, while also signing Brandin Echols. Teams don’t carry that many slot cornerbacks, which was Ramsey’s projected role before he played boundary corner and then safety due to limitations within the scheme.

So Bishop was released after camp and then joined the Saints as a member of the practice squad in December. He was yet to play a game for the Saints, and this situation certainly won’t help that.