3 reasons why the Steelers running game will improve in 2019

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PITTSBURGH, PA – DECEMBER 02: Antonio Brown #84 of the Pittsburgh Steelers reacts after a 46 yard reception in the first quarter during the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Heinz Field on December 2, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

1. No more Antonio Brown

Though Antonio Brown was one of the best receivers in the National Football League, his departure may have actually helped the Steelers in more ways that one.

When Brown forced his way out of Pittsburgh, it may have done more for the Steelers than just removed a troubled character from the locker room. As odd as it sounds, there is reason to believe that losing Antonio Brown may help the Steelers on the ground.

Without a four-time All-Pro wide receiver in the mix (and often complaining for targets), the Steelers should be free to use a more balanced approach on the offensive side of the ball.

Brown was fantastic at drawing coverage and attention from the defense, but his stardom may have actually played a factor in Randy Fichtner’s decision to pass so often. The new offensive coordinator had one of the most unbalanced offenses in football – passing the ball essentially twice as much as they ran it.

Now that Antonio Brown is gone, the Steelers can breathe easy knowing that they can mix in the run game as much as they want. With James Conner proving to be more than capable, I don’t know why they wouldn’t.

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