Steelers Beginning To Gain A Clear Picture At RB3 As Anthony McFarland Jr. Continues To Shine In Training Camp

The Pittsburgh Steelers are far enough into training camp to where fans are starting to gain a deeper understanding of which players have a legitimate chance of making the 53-man roster in 2023. In all likelihood, the team will carry three running backs this upcoming season. Both Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren are locks, but there are serious questions as to who will win the third-string running back job. 

There are a number of ball carriers who have a golden opportunity to prove their worth and solidify their spot as the backup to Harris and Warren. Many had high expectations for Alfonzo Graham, an undrafted free agent rookie who had a stellar collegiate career at Morgan State to occupy the role. However, his rookie campaign was cut short after suffering a torn labrum in practice. 

The injury to Graham paved the way for fellow undrafted free agent rookie, Darius Hagans, to receive more attention in training camp. Unfortunately, the former Virginia State star has struggled early on, especially when it comes to fumbling. Needless to say, Hagans will need to reverse this trend and do a better job of holding onto the football if he hopes to stick around in Pittsburgh. 

Steelers' Former Fourth-Round Pick May Finally Have An Opportunity To Shine In 2023

Hagans will undoubtedly have time to improve his level of play and show why he is a viable option to make the team in 2023. With that being said, there has been another running back who has clearly emerged as the front runner to win the running back-three job, former former fourth-round pick, Anthony McFarland Jr. 

McFarland's strong performance thus far should come as no surprise, as he performed well during the team's 2022 training camp and made some impressive runs in preseason action. He likely would have made the team this past season if it were not for Warren, who was widely considered to be the "training camp darling" of 2022. With Warren clearly established as the primary backup to Harris, the time may finally be now for McFarland to not only win a spot on the 53-man roster, but find a way to make a serious impact on the team's offense in 2023. 

Versatility Is Key For McFarland In 2023

Barring an unforeseen injury to either Harris or Warren in 2023, whoever wins the third-string running back job will likely not see much action of offense. As a result, this player will need to provide value on special teams, something McFarland is capable of doing. His above average speed and quick change of direction give him all the necessary traits to be a successful return specialist, a position the team will need to replace with the departure of Steven Sims, who inked a deal with the Houston Texans earlier in the 2023 offseason. 

Gunner Olszewski, who is entering his second season in Pittsburgh in 2023, is also a candidate. However, the argument can be made that McFarland is a better running back than Olszewski is wide receiver, making him a logical option to be the team's return man. Furthermore, McFarland has more than demonstrated his comfortability as a receiver during his time with the Steelers. This strength may work to his advantage when it comes time for roster cuts. 

A big play in the receiving game this preseason would certainly help his chances of beating out the likes of Hagans, Greg Bell, and John Lovett for the backup role. He will be an extremely interesting player to keep an eye on as the weeks roll on in Latrobe. The 2023 season may finally prove to be the year in which he makes his mark on the Steelers' offense. 

Thoughts, Steeler Nation?

How would you feel about McFarland winning the running back-three job in 2023? Do you think Hagans has enough time to make up lost ground? Which other players have impressed you during training camp? Be sure to let us know in the comments! 

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