Steelers training camp: Battle at running back depth is heating up

Jaylen Samuels

Likelihood of making the roster: 35 percent

While on paper Jaylen Samuels is the most likely RB number four, his tape is the epidemy of useless. As a runner, Samuels misses a lot of holes and lacks the speed and athleticism to break the big play. While he did find success against the Patriots as a runner during his rookie year, that was more due to scheme than Samuels. This past season was an example of that, as Samuels rushed for a paltry 2.7 yards per carry.

Steelers nation hype Samuels up as a great pass catcher, and while he has ok hands, he lacks the ability to do anything when he actually catches the ball. He has logged 73 receptions so far in his career, but his 6.9 yards per catch demonstrate the fact he doesn’t do much with the passes he catches. On top of this, he also dropped five passes last year, showing that he may not have the hands everyone believes he has.

Overall, it’s hard to even call Samuels a jack of all trades, as he doesn’t do much at even an average level. While his veteran status will give him an early edge, his play and tape are paltry and doesn’t show a player worthy of being on the active roster. I expect Samuels to be cut outright, but his veteran status gives him an edge over both Whyte and Edmunds.