The Pittsburgh Steelers have some interesting choices to make in the 2025 offseason. Of course, the quarterback spot and the wide receiver positions are taking center stage, but the running back position is also something to watch. Najee Harris is set to become a free agent, and Jaylen Warren is a restricted free agent. While Warren is expected to return, the uncertainty surrounding Harris’ future with the team raises questions about the Steelers’ backfield moving forward.
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Steelers General Manager Omar Khan looks on before an away game.
With Harris’ status in question, many expect Steelers General Manager Omar Khan to target a running back in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, the mystery remains: what round will Khan select a back, and who will that back be? The Steelers could be looking for a complementary piece to Warren, or perhaps a more significant investment if Harris moves on. The team’s approach could depend on several factors, including the direction of their offense and the available talent in the draft.
Steelers insider Mike DeFabo provided some insight into the mystery surrounding the running back position in his Steelers mailbag for The Athletic. DeFabo’s analysis offers a glimpse into the team's thought process as they navigate this pivotal offseason decision. The running back position may not be the most glamorous storyline, but it’s one that could have a major impact on the team’s future plans.
"I think the Steelers could start considering a running back beginning in the third round," DeFabo said. "Iowa’s Kaleb Johnson or Ohio State’s TreVeyon Henderson are two possibilities. But in a deep and talented running back class, there are a ton to consider. I’ll have much more on the running back class as we get closer to draft day."
DeFabo first highlighted two intriguing running back prospects: Iowa State's Kaleb Johnson and Ohio State's TreVeyon Henderson. Both players bring plenty of excitement to the table, and this year’s running back draft class is filled with talent. However, it’s unlikely the Steelers will prioritize a running back early, meaning Round 1 can likely be ruled out.
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Buckeyes' TreVeyon Henderson runs away from Texas during a college football playoff game in the 2024 season.
Henderson, in particular, has garnered significant attention in connection with the Steelers. His exceptional vision and footwork, paired with breakaway speed, make him a highly explosive and dynamic player. Scouts have been impressed by his ability to change direction and accelerate, and if the Steelers were to select Henderson in the third round, it would certainly generate excitement in Pittsburgh.
Steelers' Draft Plans Will Be Largely Impacted By Najee Harris And Jaylen Warren
In addition to Henderson's potential, the Steelers' decision regarding Harris and Warren will likely play a significant role in how they approach the draft. If both Harris and Warren are back in 2025, the Steelers likely won't need to draft a running back. However, recent insights have emerged that contradict the initial expectation of Harris being gone in 2025, suggesting that his future with the team may not be as certain as originally thought. This new information could change the team's approach to the position in the draft.
With the future of Harris and Warren uncertain, Pittsburgh could be more inclined to invest in a running back earlier than initially expected. The balance between their current running backs and the draft class will certainly shape the Steelers' overall draft strategy, as it will influence whether they prioritize depth or look to invest in a future starter. How Harris and Warren's talks with the team go, and any potential changes to their status, could heavily impact the team’s decisions in the coming months.
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Steelers' Najee Harris carries the ball during practice ahead of a 2024 contest against the Colts.
Many fans are eager to know when the Steelers will start considering a running back in the draft. Based on the current insights from DeFabo, it seems the third round is when Pittsburgh might start looking in that direction. This is certainly an intriguing prospect for Steelers fans, who will be closely watching which running backs from this deep and talented class could be targeted to bolster their beloved team.
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