4 outsiders who could end up on Steelers roster in 2021

RB Kalen Ballage

Despite his college resume at Arizona State and former 4th round draft status with the Miami Dolphins, Kalen Ballage has very much been a disappointment to begin his NFL career. The big running back has a dismal career rushing average of just 3.1 yards per carry over his first three NFL seasons, according to Pro Football Reference, and he’s hoping he gets a chance to improve on that in 2021.

While Ballage may be an outsider to make the roster – especially after the team drafted Najee Harris in the first round this past April, there is still a path for Ballage to make the roster.

I would assume that Pittsburgh’s top three running backs are pretty well set with Harris, Anthony McFarland, and Benny Snell. However, this is a group that elected to keep four active runners on their roster last season. If that is the case again this year, Ballage could beat out Jaylen Samuels (who offered very little value to the Steelers last season).

At the very least, Ballage is a big back (6’1 1/2”, 228 pounds) with 4.46 speed and very good athletic traits. He offers some special teams value and could carry the load in a pinch. I think he has less than a coin-flip chance of making in, but this outsider could stick around in 2021.