4 best-kept secrets on the Pittsburgh Steelers roster ahead of training camp

RB Anthony McFarland

I don’t know why some people insist on putting words in my mouth when it comes to my opinion on Anthony McFarland. I’ll be the first to admit that the young running back struggled mightily during his rookie season. However, we have to consider how McFarland could turn out under the right circumstances.

Though he had issues with his vision last year that resulted in missing a couple of big holes, the athletic traits are there, and there isn’t a player on Pittsburgh’s offense that could beat him in a foot race. Now reunited with Matt Canada (his former coach at Maryland), there’s no doubt the speedster will have a role in 2021.

McFarland will really benefit from a stretch-zone offense – especially one that’s not so predictable as what we saw in 2020. Though he may never be the most natural runner, all he needs is a crease to break off some big chunk yardage with his legitimate 4.4 speed.

Whereas players like Benny Snell and Kalen Ballage are essentially much lesser versions of what the team already has in Najee Harris, McFarland could offer the team an electric change of pace to Harris if he can get things down in 2021. He’s got a long way to go, but the upside is there to give this offense a much-needed spark.