5 Steelers backups that will play the most snaps during 2021

Considering the Steelers’ reliance on the next-man-up mentality, these five backups could play more snaps than many are expecting in 2021.

Seemingly since Mike Tomlin took over as the coach for the Steelers, he has presented the idea that the team relies on a next-man-up style of roster. Instead of pricy free agents and trade acquisitions, the team will try to draft and develop its players instead. Likewise, when an injury or departure occurs, the team will look in-house before going with someone not currently on the roster. This can lead to some unexpected backups playing far more than most would expect one to play. Looking at the roster as it stands right now, here are the five Steelers backups that figure to play more snaps than expected.

Steelers Ray-Ray McCloud

Ray-Ray McCloud was a breath of fresh air for the Steelers last season. The former Clemson gadget player and return specialist stabilized the return game for the first time in forever, and now entering his second camp with the team he figures to try and make more of an impact on offense. The team tried to use him as a Ryan Switzer clone last season, and while the results weren’t great, he did end up playing 15 percent of the offensive snaps.

That number could easily go up next season though as Matt Canada takes the reigns as offensive coordinator. He relies heavily on sweeps and jet motions, and frankly those styles of play fall right into McCloud’s wheelhouse. While McCloud won’t have his offensive playing time spike by any means, it could certainly double if he proves effective as the hybrid receiver/running back that Canada likes to utilize in this role. As well, if Anthony McFarland doesn’t take the next step and take some of those snaps, even more could go McCloud’s way. While he will likely retain his role as the primary returner, don’t be surprised if he sees more offensive snaps than last season.