Steelers training camp: Battle at running back depth is heating up
By Andrew Falce
Kerrith Whyte
Likelihood of making the roster: 10 percent
While Kerrith Whyte only played in six games for the Steelers last season, he flashed great speed and elusiveness in his limited play. He averaged an impressive 5.1 yards per carry, but more importantly provided the Steelers with a change of pace to the power that Conner and Snell brought to the team. Frankly, had the Steelers not invested a draft pick in the speedy McFarland, Whyte would be a favorite to earn the role of change of pace back.
On top of his speed out of the backfield, Whyte began taking kicks back for the Steelers. While his 18.9 yards per return isn’t great, he began taking kicks back well into the season. Perhaps with a full offseason of practice with the return team could yield better results. Considering the Steelers shortfalls in the return game, having an improved return man could yield positive results for the team.
His biggest issue is McFarland, as both provide a similar skillset, and Whyte has the inferior talent overall. That said, he could earn a spot on the practice squad. Given the unique nature of this season though, there is a good chance he is called up to the active roster at some point. His odds of making the actual roster are better than Edmunds, but he is still likely destined for the practice squad in week one.