pittsburgh steelers Make sure they get a job this offseason. Because they are trying to build a competitive roster. We are no longer in a “reload” phase and are now a team looking for answers rather than filling gaps. After another disappointing season in 2023; Look back at the list When moving to the next phase.
Position: Running back
Total number of positions: 5
Added: 1
Delete: 1
Players retained:
Under contract:
Najee Harris: The Steelers will have to decide if they want to pick up Harris' fifth-year option. Its value will reach nearly $7 million in 2025 and is guaranteed. Was he good enough after throwing for 1,035 yards and eight touchdowns in 2023? The bleak quarterback outlook probably works in their favor in retaining a productive running back. There will be.
Jalen Warren: Warren continued to impress last season, totaling over 1,000 yards from scrimmage. He scored four touchdowns while doubling his number of touches from his rookie season. The only question is whether he gets a bigger share of the job next year.
Alfonzo Graham: Graham, a rookie who signed from the HBCU Bowl a year ago, injured his shoulder during training camp. The Steelers waived him with an injury designation and returned him to the reserve/injured list.
Pending free agents:
Godwin Igwebuike: After finishing the season as a capable kick returner, I expect Igwebuike to be re-signed. He is a restricted free agent, but the Steelers have no intention of tendering him. They should be able to re-sign him on a veteran's pay benefit deal.
Additions:
Aaron Champklin: The Steelers worked on Champklin during training camp and signed him to a reserve/future contract in January. He didn't spend any time organizing during that time. He could also argue that that's saying something, because they hadn't forgotten about him.
delete:
Anthony McFarland Jr.: He opened the season as the starting kick returner but is now in the UFL. I doubt the Steelers will bring him back.
Offseason strategy:
At least I don't see much of a comprehensive strategy for 2024. The Steelers already have two key running backs under contract. The biggest decision they have to make is picking up Harris' fifth-year option. Whether they do that or not, they will still be controlling him next season. And they can re-sign him in 2025 if they wish.
What do the Steelers do about the third running back spot? They haven't done much lately. Igwebuike served as a kick returner for most of last season, and he could do it again. I don't see them using a draft pick on a running back, at least not until the final round.
In fact, they're already struggling to get enough touches from the Harris-Warren duo. There is not enough to feed the third mouth, but at the same time hurt the depth. They need a third running back who can fill in if someone gets hurt. What is Benny Snell Football up to these days?
