With training camp just around the corner for the Steelers, any of these four free-agent running backs would be sensible additions to help bolster the depth chart.
It is no secret that the Steelers have one of the weakest running back depth charts in the NFL right now. While Najee Harris should be a star this season, there is little in terms of a backup plan behind him. Considering the fact that the offense is seemingly being built around the run, not having any capable depth to rotate in with Harris or to be counted on to replace him in case of injury seems like a mistake.
Here are four free-agent running backs the Steelers could add to bolster their depth chart.
Steelers could add Barber
The least impressive name on this list, Peyton Barber would represent an upgrade in competition as opposed to him instantly earning a spot on the depth chart. While the former Buccaneer almost put together a 1000 total yard season in 2018, most of his play has been mediocre.
What he does offer is a good power option in a scheme that favors that style of running. Barber won’t be breaking off huge runs or catching a ton of passes every year. What he will do though is pick up the tough yards in a pinch and even find the end zone on occasion. He isn’t a great option, but he could work in this scheme.
The real reason to bring him in is that signing him should get more out of current backup Benny Snell. He and Barber are similar backs, as neither are big-play threats and rely on power to get any yards. Snell has virtually no competition right now though, so Barber could be some insurance to push this current depth chart in order to find a better backup for Harris.
Steelers could add Richard
Another former Raider would also make sense here but for a whole different reason. Jalen Richard has never been counted on as a traditional starter in this league. Even in games where he technically started, there has always been a more capable runner paired with him. His versatility comes with his ability to catch passes and win in space.
While Harris is also a noted pass catcher, Richard has defined his career around it. Sure, he can take a traditional hand-off, find space, and gain yards, but where he shines in the passing game. Such was the case in 2018 when Richard posted over 600 receiving yards as he became a favorite target in the passing game.
While the Steelers wouldn’t want Richard having to start too many games, he would be a valuable rotational back to take some pressure off of Harris. If an injury did occur, having him paired with a traditional runner like Snell could work in the short term. Richard is a niche player, but that makes him a valuable backup. He would be worth the addition as he would strengthen the overall depth behind Harris going into camp.
Steelers could add Johnson
The biggest name on this list, David Johnson, at one point, was seen as the next big thing at running back. He was effective as both a runner and a receiver and more importantly, he was constantly finding the endzone. His usage took a toll on him though, and injuries began to mount. Now he looks like a shell of his former dynamic self.
While his first season with the Texans wasn’t terrible, he looked washed up last year. He still struggled with injuries, but his time on the field was abysmal. Given his age, it is safe to say that Johnson shouldn’t be counted on as a starter anymore. As a complete backup that can step in for spot duties though, the Steelers could do far worse.
Adding a player like Johnson has some major DeAngelo Williams vibes to it. Both veteran running backs were past their prime, but as backups, Williams did extremely well and odds are Johnson could prove to be as valuable. He still needs a home, and it would be a wise decision for the Steelers to bring him in to round out this depth chart.
Steelers could add Jackson
A name that far and away makes the most sense, Justin Jackson is both a younger option and a player with a good track record as a backup. While he was never the guy with the Chargers, he was constantly rotated in with top names like Melvin Gordon and Austin Ekeler. Now a free agent, adding him to this roster would instantly make the Steelers two-deep at running back.
Jackson would far and away be the best second option this team can currently bring in. While not the biggest back, Jackson runs with good power and has some sneaky speed. He’s averaged a healthy five yards per carry since coming into the league and he can catch passes out of the backfield as well. Add in his special team’s ability and you have a quality backup sitting on the free-agent market.
Jackson is a guy that is best served to take 5-10 carries a game and reliving a starter. If an injury were to occur though, he has all of the traits you would want in a starting back. Even when he isn’t aiding the offense, Jackson can still make an impact as a special teams player. All in all, getting Jackson on this roster seems like a no-brainer move for the Steelers as the team heads towards camp.
The Steelers are in need of a backup running back, as the depth at that position is one of the weakest spots on the team. Luckily for them, there are some capable free agents still left on the market. Any of these four names would make a lot of sense for the team as they hope to fill out their depth chart before training camp opens.