In 2016, the Steelers spent a first round pick on cornerback Artie Burns. This marked the first time the Steelers had used their top pick on a cornerback since drafting Maryland’s Chad Scott in 1997. Burns had a decent rookie season, earning a starting role at the midpoint of the year and finishing with 3 interceptions and 13 passes defended. He had a decent sophomore campaign with 13 passes defended and 1 interception in 16 starts. In 2017 the Steelers also bolstered their secondary by bringing in Joe Haden after he was released by the Browns.
Unfortunately, Burns’ play fell off in 2018 and he was benched in favor of Coty Sensabaugh after numerous penalties and blown coverages.