The Pittsburgh Steelers may have just got themselves a steal in defensive back Trenton Thompson.
Expectations weren’t high for the undrafted free agent out of San Diego State after he joined Pittsburgh late in training camp. But after a solid preseason, Thompson made the cut. And yesterday, he got his second start in the Black and Gold.
His promotion from the practice squad was due to a rash of injuries in the Steelers’ secondary, but his play is what will keep him in the lineup.
Thompson tied only T.J. Watt in the most tackles (5) against the Cincinnati Bengals and, on a critical 3rd & 7 in Pittsburgh territory, stepped in front of Pro Bowler Ja’Marr Chase and came down with an interception.
It was a play he just missed making in the Week 11 loss to the Browns, and according to All Steelers Noah Strackbein, Mike Tomlin challenged Thompson to make up for it.
“This guy has been excited about his opportunity and we’re excited for him,” Tomlin said. “He delivered.”
Thompson understood the gravity of his first career interception. “Game changer,” he said. “We needed a turnover for sure, just to get us pumped up and get the offense rolling. And obviously, it took away some momentum from their sideline.”
With Keanu Neal on injured reserve, Thompson should see more opportunities come his way.
Trenton Thompson with the INT 🙌
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— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) November 26, 2023
