4 reasons the Steelers will need a new starting RB in 2021

McFarland is a long shot to start

There was some curiosity as to what role McFarland would do for the Steelers after he was drafted. Known for his speed, McFarland was a different style of back from both Conner and Snell. While plenty of other offense more heavily relies on smaller backs, the Steelers have a definite type in their starting back. Besides Willie Parker, who showed serious flashes early and often in his career, the Steelers have always opted for heavy power backs.

That doesn’t mean McFarland can’t become a starter for this offense, but his odds of doing so aren’t great. It would be one thing if he was lighting it up as a reserve this year, but outside of a solid debut against Houston, McFarland hasn’t been dynamic. He almost seems too fast for his own good, tripping over his feet and falling for a short gain.

This doesn’t mean McFarland can’t be an effective player in this league, nor is he a bust of a draft pick. The fact of the matter is, he hasn’t shown that he is starting material, and given he isn’t the ideal build, the Steelers will likely use him as a reserve more so than a true starter. Unless the Steelers truly commit to a backfield by committee, McFarland will never be much more than a change of pace reserve.