One of the players at the NFL scouting combine the Pittsburgh Steelers have shown particular interest in is former Oklahoma State running back Justice Hill. According to multiple sources in Indianapolis, Hill is having a formal interview with the Steelers this weekend.
Running backs worked out on Friday and in a class short of athletes, Hill stood out. At just over 5-foot-9 and 198 pounds, Hill had the fastest 40 time at 4.4 seconds, as well as the longest broad jump and highest vertical. Hill also had the fastest 10-yard split of any running back at 1.58 seconds. This might be one of the most underrated numbers to come from the combine because getting to full speed is just as important in the NFL as long speed.
Hill is one of the most elusive backs in the draft and one of the few breakaway threats among the group. His numbers took a dip in 2018 due in part to losing his top teammates, quarterback Mason Rudolph and wide receiver James Washington, both members of the Steelers now.
In 2017, Rudolph, Washington and Hill formed perhaps the most potent offensive trio in college football. Hill rushed for 1,467 yards and 15 rushing touchdowns. He also chipped in 31 receptions in what is a very underrated portion of his game.
If Pittsburgh wants to draft Hill they would likely need to spend their third-round pick on him. Where would he fit with James Conner and Jaylen Samuels? Hill’s speed sets him apart and he’d be an exceptional third-round or change-of-pace back.
