Super Bowl LV Champion CB Shares His Mentality with the 2026 Steelers
On October 5th, the Steelers signed cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers practice squad. He’s excited to make his debut in Pittsburgh. The 29-year-old spoke with the media Wednesday after practice, saying, “When I found out, I was obviously excited, just for the opportunity.” He elaborated, “I’m blessed for the opportunity just to compete and be on a team with this much talent. I’m excited for what’s to come.”
Via X, Nick Farabaugh shared Murphy-Bunting’s response when asked about his mentality. The Central Michigan alumnus said, “I’m a competitor, and I don’t take nonsense. I like to show up and be in people’s faces. I don’t like to complain. I don’t make excuses. I try to make plays, and that’s how I stand on things.”
Murphy-Bunting’s mindset fits the Steelers perfectly. Anthony G. Halkias II of Steeler Nation noted, “The Steelers have traditionally valued defensive players who aren’t afraid of confrontation and don’t need much encouragement to compete physically. Murphy-Bunting’s personality appears capable of fitting into that environment immediately, particularly if his play backs up everything he just said.” His attitude will make it easy for Steelers defensive coordinator Patrick Graham to work with him.
The 29-year-old played for three NFL teams before signing with Pittsburgh: the Bucs, the Arizona Cardinals, and the Tennessee Titans. He has played in 82 regular-season games in his NFL career, starting in 65, with 297 total tackles, 211 solo, and one sack. He also recorded 34 passes defended, eight forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, 11 interceptions, and one touchdown. The Central Michigan alumnus played for the Bucs when they won the Super Bowl in 2020. Murphy-Bunting played in 15 regular-season games for the Cardinals in 2024, amassing 52 tackles, 30 of which were solo. He also recorded five passes defended, three interceptions, and two forced fumbles. The veteran cornerback spent the 2025 season on injured reserve.
The Super Bowl-winning defensive back is an excellent addition. His confidence and no-nonsense attitude are exactly what the Steelers need. The seasoned defender is a team player who’s ready to deliver when called upon. He adds veteran depth to Pittsburgh’s secondary. He’s also versatile, a trait Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy has emphasized.
