3 cheap free agents Steelers must add before the 2022 draft

Chicago Bears running back Tarik Cohen (29) Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
Chicago Bears running back Tarik Cohen (29) Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports /
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Chicago Bears running back Tarik Cohen (29) Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /

Steelers should sign Cohen

One of the more underrated needs of this team is a backup running back. While Najee Harris is obviously the lead back and a focal point in this offense, having a capable backup that can give him some rest will prolong his career. Harris won’t be able to survive handling 350 plus touches a season for long. Finding a complementary change of pace back would make this offense that much better.

With draft capital thin, signing someone should be the preferred option right now. A name that makes a lot of sense for a variety of reasons is Tarik Cohen. The former Bears back is a hybrid runner/receiver that can make big plays from all over the field. He was injured for all of last season which led to his release this offseason, but his dynamic play would be a welcomed addition to this backfield.

While he can use his speed to bust open a big play at any time, he is also a potent receiver. He can be effective on screens and even play some in the slot if need be. He has a good history with Mitchell Trubisky on top of all this, making him an even more interesting fit into this offense. Assuming he was willing to play for the minimum this season to recoup his value, the Steelers have to be all over bringing Cohen onto this roster.

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The Steelers have aggressively filled most of their needs already, but there are some holes that should be addressed before the draft occurs. These three names in particular make a lot of sense as budget options that would fill a need. Keep an eye on these names as the offseason turns away from free agency and heads toward the draft.