The Pittsburgh Steelers have enjoyed a successful offseason despite the retirements of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and GM Kevin Colbert. The front office was able to bring in some crucial players in free agency like Myles Jack and James Daniels, while also keeping some other key guys. In the draft, the Steelers addressed the quarterback and wide receiver positions, which will hopefully bring the offense back around in 2022.
While it can be seen as a successful offseason for the Steelers, they failed at one thing: bringing in a legitimate backup for Najee Harris. Not only would it help in the case of an injury, but Harris carried the ball 307 times in his rookie season. They were linked to multiple guys in the draft process, but ended up waiting until after the draft to address the position. Former Duke RB Mataeo Durant, an UDFA, seems to have a decent chance at making the 53-man roster. In 2021, he ran the ball 255 times for 1,241 yards and nine touchdowns. It was by far his best season in college, as it was his first time eclipsing 1,000 yards. He's not even a lock to make the team though, and it's tough to try and rely on an undrafted free agent.
As for the guys that remain behind Harris, Benny Snell Jr., and Anthony McFarland Jr. haven't yet shown they can be trusted backups. Snell has 892 rushing yards and six touchdowns in three seasons. Unfortunately, McFarland's been plagued by injuries throughout his professional career, limiting his on-field opportunities. In two seasons, he's rushed the ball just 36 times for 116 yards. These two have the talent to break out at any time, but it's difficult to have much trust in the running back room beyond Harris.
There remains a few options in free agency for Pittsburgh, but that's likely unlikely to happen. Veterans like Devontae Booker, Carlos Hyde, Jerick McKinnon, and Wayne Gallman are available at the moment. Not the most appealing names, but a veteran presence would help immensely if an injury were to happen during the season. Former Broncos RB Phillip Lindsay would've been a solid option, but he signed with the Colts just a few weeks ago. Beyond the four guys mentioned so far, the Steelers also have Trey Edmunds and UDFA Jaylen Warren on the roster at running back. Warren will have the chance to battle with Durant and others in trying to make the team out of camp. Additionally, they have Derek Watt still under contract at fullback.
As we know by now, the Steelers have a blossoming star in Najee Harris. Heading into the summer, the depth behind him is concerning. If an injury were to happen, would you have confidence in the Steelers' rushing attack? Who should they have potentially signed or drafted? Let us know your thoughts below in the comments!
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