With just days to go until the 2020 NFL draft, we are going to go through all of the Steelers positional units to review the current state of the roster, gauge draft needs, and talk about some approaches to addressing the need.
Next up, we have the running backs.
Roster
The Steelers currently have four running backs on their roster. James Conner is the most well-known name among the group. Fans love him because he’s a hometown guy, and his victorious battle with cancer is an inspirational backstory everyone admires him for. Who wouldn’t want to see him succeed? When healthy, Conner is a dynamic runner with the versatility to excel as a pass-catcher.
The backups on the roster are Benny Snell, Jr., Jaylen Samuels, and Kerrith Whyte. The overall offense was dreadful in 2019, including one of the worst seasons the offensive line has experienced in recent years. However, a great running back can adjust and still grind out yards. In Conner’s absence, none of the reserves really shined.
Draft need
Most of the mock drafts out there have the Steelers selecting an RB with their first pick at No. 49. Some fans argue that RB is not as pressing of a need as, say, an offensive lineman.
Seeing as Conner has yet to have an injury-free season since he was drafted, optimism that he suddenly will in 2020 is not high. And as we witnessed last season, his backups didn’t appear capable of sparking an offense.
For me, the Steelers must draft an RB at No. 49. There are fewer question marks in the second round than there are with prospects deeper in the draft. Conner is likely in his final season with the Steelers, and his predecessor isn’t currently on the roster.
Potential targets
D’Andre Swift | Georgia
J.K. Dobbins | Ohio State
Cam Akers | Florida State
Clyde Edwards-Helaire | LSU
