Boosting The Odds: Steelers Need To Bring In Offensive Free Agents For Training Camp

Willis McGahee RB, 31 years old

November 18, 2012; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos running back Willis McGahee (23) during the first quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

At one point, many thought this guy’s career was over once he suffered a brutal knee injury during the Fiesta Bowl back in 2002.  But, McGahee was persistant and overcame that injury to play for the Bills starting in 2004.  McGahee bounced to the Ravens where he had some pretty good seasons, and finally landed in Denver where he ran for almost 1,200 yards.  His 2012 season was cut short when he tore his MCL and suffered a compression fracture in his leg.  McGahee says he’s healthy, but the Broncos released him due to his health concerns according to Colorado Springs Gazette.

Well the injury concerns certainly would bring McGahee’s market value down for the Steelers to afford him if they want him.  The question is, will he be worth the time and effort if he’s not 100%?  From a training camp standpoint I believe he is.  With Isaac Redman, Jonathan Dwyer, and rookie Le’Veon Bell as the possible roster, the Steelers could use a back who’s had a few 1,000 yard seasons under his belt.  Should Bell prove that he is the one to be the featured back (a surprise but not impossible), then McGahee could be a good third down back to spell Bell since Redman and Dwyer aren’t really the greatest of pass catchers out of the flat.