If you hadn’t heard, the Pittsburgh Steelers are trying to find a running back. Alfonzo Graham announced via Twitter on Monday that he has a torn labrum in his shoulder that will force him to miss the entire 2023 season. That was unfortunate news for a guy that made headlines back in June due to his impressive play. Since then, the Steelers have already been active in the running back market.
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The Steelers are trying to find a legitimate No. 3 running back behind the top two dogs, Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren.
They worked out several guys on Monday according to Aaron Wilson. Near the end of the day, they signed John Lovett. He’s an unproven guy, including in his college days. On Tuesday, the Steelers signed another running back that they worked out in Greg Bell. In a corresponding move, they have released tailback Jason Huntley. Bell spent time with the Detroit Lions last summer, but wasn't able to make their 53-man roster.
After starting out at Nebraska, he finished out his college ball at San Diego State. Bell broke out in a big way in 2021, as he racked up 1,091 rushing yards and nine touchdowns. He had just 19 total catches across three collegiate seasons, so he doesn't seem to be much of a threat in the passing game. It sure seems like they’re trying their hardest to find another gem at RB.
Last year, it was Jaylen Warren. As an Undrafted rookie, the Oklahoma State product took over the backup job behind Najee Harris. This year, it seemed like it was going to be Graham. While not nearly as much of a need as last summer, there is clearly a hole at running back beyond Warren and Harris. As of now, Anthony McFarland Jr. is the clear and obvious No. 3 running back in Pittsburgh.
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As of now, Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. seems likely to be the team's No. 3 RB in 2023.
The question will be whether or not the Steelers are comfortable with that. In three NFL seasons, McFarland has just 42 carries for 146 yards, as well as nine catches for 76 receiving yards. While Lovett and Bell could surprise people, it seems like the Steelers are just bringing in extra bodies for now.
Will Steelers continue to search for No. 3 RB?
There are several backfields around the NFL to watch, including the New York Jets and Philadelphia Eagles. Additionally, there are plenty of decent running backs still on the market, including Dalvin Cook and Kareem Hunt. Just over a month ago, former NFL quarterback Ryan Leaf suggested six-year veteran Leonard Fournette as a guy that made sense in Pittsburgh.
He still has some juice left in the tank, but he may want more of a role than being a third-string back. Unfortunately, these are guys that are used to being workhorses in their primes. While most of them are past their prime, it would be difficult to sell any of them on a third-string role. If the Steelers wanted a true change-of-pace guy, J.D. McKissic could be an intriguing option, formally with the Washington Commanders from 2020-2022.
Peter Diana / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
NFL veteran running back Leonard Fournette mentioned that he always chats with Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin before facing off against his squad.
McKissic brings a completely different dynamic than any of the guys currently on the roster. Several people around the Steelers, including beat writer Dale Lolley, have mentioned Darius Hagans as an intriguing prospect as well. He has the size and potential to sneak up on that No. 3 job, but is more likely a practice squad guy. He's had a solid training camp so far, but will need to continue to impress if he wants to crack the 53-man roster.
With the Graham injury, what are your thoughts on the current state of the RB market? Do you think either Lovett or Bell will push for a 53-man roster spot? Who do you think the team will eventually sign, or will they settle with McFarland? Share your thoughts in the comment section below, yinz!
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