It may seem like the Pittsburgh Steelers were just putting the cap on their 2022 season but believe it or not Training Camp is right around the corner. As the Steelers prepare for their trip East to Latrobe, we’re getting ready too. We’ll be previewing the 90 players participating at St. Vincent College position by position. In this article we look at the running backs.
Currently on the Roster
Najee Harris – 3rd season
Jaylen Warren – 2nd season
Anthony McFarland – 3rd season
Jason Huntley – 2nd season
Darius Hagans – Rookie
Alfonzo Graham – Rookie
Monte Pottebaum (FB) – Rookie
Najee Harris
Harris enters his third season as the starter and bona fide three down back. His heavy load simmered some with the emergence of Warren but that’s good news as far as I’m concerned. His 2022 campaign started with some struggles as he dealt with a foot injury but once he got healthy, things started to click for him. I’m optimistic he’ll pick up where he left off in 2022 and that could lead to a Pro Bowl season.
2022 stats:
272 carries
1,034 yards rushing
3.9 yards per carry
7 touchdowns
41 receptions
229 yards receiving
3 touchdowns
Harris’ receiving numbers were down by almost half – in large part due to QB instability to begin the season – resulting in his overall less mileage on his body. His longest rush last season was 19 yards which again emphasizes the need for a home run hitter on offense.
Jaylen Warren
The former Oklahoma State star burst onto the scene as a free agent signing after the 2022 draft. His low center of gravity and straight-ahead style endeared himself to Steelers’ fans immediately. As the season wore on, Mike Tomlin became more and more comfortable with using him.
2022 stats:
77 carries
339 yards rushing
4.9 yards per carry
1 touchdown
28 receptions
214 yards receiving
Both Harris and Warren came into OTAs in excellent shape. Harris a little lighter and Warren bulked up, especially his lower body. Matt Canada must find ways of getting these guys on the field at the same time in order to optimize their skills and to keep defenses guessing. Warren will be a vital part of the offense’s success this season giving the Steelers’ a legitimate 1-2 punch.
Anthony McFarland
For the first time last season McFarland showed some glimpses of the talent that got him drafted but these glimpses were few and did little to get him on the field. With Warren entrenched as the clear number two RB, McFarland finds himself in trouble as far as staying on the roster.
2022 stats:
6 carries
30 yards
2 receptions
11 yards receiving
Jason Huntley
Entering his third season in the NFL, Huntley played his first two in Philadelphia before signing with the Steelers. He appeared in just six games for the Eagles. Originally drafted by the Lions in the fifth round of the 2020 Draft, Huntley attracted attention at New Mexico State with several terrific kickoff returns. He will have to rely on those skills because offensively he’s incredibly limited to what he can do. He’s largely an outside runner or a guy who could be used in the slot.
Darius Hagans
Hagans signed as an undrafted free agent out of Virginia State. He has a nice blend of speed and size offering a little bit of everything. He’s an adequate route runner and pass catcher can run away from defenders or break a tackle or two. He’s going to have to make the roster on Special Teams and as a potential third down back.
Alfonzo Graham
Graham, to this point, is best known for wanting to challenge Minkah Fitpatrick at OTAs. Let’s give the kid props for this because it didn’t go well. That said, Graham was the best RB in the MEAC playing for the Morgan State Bears. At 5’9″ 180lbs, he relies heavily on speed and elusiveness. He averaged over 100 yards rushing per game in 2022 and also produced some fantastic, highlight reel moments. While impressive, we must also consider the talent level he played against too. Training Camp is going to be crucial for him in order to prove he belongs.
Monte Pottebaum
Remember when the Steelers and fullbacks were synonymous? Despite having Derek Watt on the roster, the Steelers have moved away from this position more and more but Pottebaum brings a very ‘throwback-style’ attitude with him. The UDFA rookie from Iowa is a classic lead blocker who enjoys contact. He rarely carried the ball for the Hawkeyes but did display some solid pass catching skills. Pottebaum will have to be a Special Teams ace in order to make the roster.
Roster Projections
I won’t be a bit surprised if Graham finds his way onto the roster but for now I have him on the P.S. McFarland will get his opportunity but if someone else performs better on Special Teams his days could be numbered.
Harris, Warren, McFarland
Practice Squad – Pottebaum, Graham
Cut – Huntley, Hagans
