The Pittsburgh Steelers' offense is coming off a historically bad 2023 season, prompting significant changes. In the 2023 offseason, the organization announced the hiring of Arthur Smith as the franchise's new offensive coordinator. Smith is known for an offensive scheme that emphasizes a heavy run game.
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Former Chiefs RB La'Mical Perine breaks a tackle.
As the Steelers continue to adjust their roster to fit Smith's system, it was revealed on Thursday by SportsTrust Advisors that the team will be signing former Kansas City Chiefs running back La'Mical Perine.
.@LP_deucedeuce is headed to the Pittsburgh @steelers ‼️#LegendsLiveHere pic.twitter.com/uB43Egy2g3
— SportsTrust Advisors (@_SportsTrust) May 23, 2024
Perine was drafted by the New York Jets in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft. During his time with the Jets, he carried the football 72 times for 263 rushing yards and scored two touchdowns. His tenure with the team was marked by injuries and limited playing time, with most of his production coming in his rookie season. In his second year, Perine played in only four games. After two seasons, he was released during final roster cuts.
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Former Jets RB La'Mical Perine running with the football.
Following stints on various practice squads, Perine got another chance in the NFL with the Chiefs. Initially starting on their practice squad, Perine was promoted to the active roster in December of 2023. He went on to win a Super Bowl with the Chiefs when they defeated the San Francisco 49ers.
Perine had limited playing time with the Chiefs. In 2023, he was active for only three games, carrying the ball 22 times for 77 yards and adding five receptions for 33 receiving yards. Despite his efforts, the Chiefs released Perine in May.
Steelers' La'Mical Perine Will Have A Hard Time Making The Active Roster
Perine will face an uphill battle to make the active roster in Pittsburgh, given the strength of the Steelers' running back room, which includes Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris. The Steelers decided to sign veteran running back Jonathan Ward, who impressed during his tryout at the rookie minicamp. Perine will now be competing against backs like Ward to earn a spot on the depth chart.
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Former Titans running back Jonathan Ward running with the football.
With Smith in town, the Steelers will rely heavily on their running backs. Warren and Harris are expected to shoulder most of the workload during the season. However, it's crucial to have a solid committee behind them to maintain the offense's momentum and give the starters ample rest.
Running backs like Ward and Perine will be working hard to make their mark in Pittsburgh and secure their positions on the team. The competition will be fierce, but having depth in the running back room will be key to the Steelers' success in 2024.
Perine's career has faced many challenges early on, but he remains determined to prove his potential. As a former fourth-round pick, he believes he can still be an effective running back in the league. Despite bouncing around on practice squads for several seasons, Perine is focused on making the active roster and earning more playing time than he has in the past. His drive and resilience will be key as he aims to carve out a meaningful role in the Steel City.
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