Ranking the Steelers among AFC North running back groups

CLEVELAND, OH - NOVEMBER 14: Mark Barron #26 of the Pittsburgh Steelers attempts to tackle Nick Chubb #24 of the Cleveland Browns during the third quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium on November 14, 2019 in Cleveland, Ohio. Cleveland defeated Pittsburgh 21-7. (Photo by Kirk Irwin/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - NOVEMBER 14: Mark Barron #26 of the Pittsburgh Steelers attempts to tackle Nick Chubb #24 of the Cleveland Browns during the third quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium on November 14, 2019 in Cleveland, Ohio. Cleveland defeated Pittsburgh 21-7. (Photo by Kirk Irwin/Getty Images) /
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Steelers
Joe Mixon #28 of the Cincinnati Bengals celebrates after running for a touchdown. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /

2. Cincinnati Bengals have one of the more well-rounded groups

The Cincinnati Bengals have now been labeled as a powerhouse in the AFC, despite only having one big season last year. They defeated the Steelers twice and went on to win the AFC, only to lose to the LA Rams in the Super Bowl. This club made significant strides in 2021 and looks to become one of the top offenses and teams in the NFL yet again.

Most people will bring up Joe Burrow or Ja’Marr Chase when they talk about the offense of these cats. That is fair as those two are the most explosive catalysts of this group. People do need to pay close attention to these running backs that they have as they are one of the best in the league.

Joe Mixon has quietly been one of the best running backs coming out of college in recent years. He slipped in the draft process after off-the-field issues but was still selected by the Bengals. He has done well on the field and created a nice career after a rocky beginning.

This veteran has been in the Pro Bowl many times and was rewarded with a sizable contract extension by Cincinnati. The depth behind him is young and has some good experience as well. Samaje Perine is a nice second back to have in your stable that can help open the passing game off play action.