The Steelers fanbase is understandably concerned about the future of the quarterback position in Pittsburgh, the running back group needs some attention too. While the Steelers have tendered Jaylen Warren, presumably ensuring his return, Najee Harris will not return in 2025.
Harris, despite rushing for 1,000 yards in four straight seasons, was lackluster in his performance, averaging just 3.9 yards per career as a Steeler. He has now signed with the Los Angeles Charges and will be saying goodbye to Pittsburgh.
While it's exciting to have Warren back, there's little indication that the Steelers want him to suddenly be a three-down back. The priority focus is certainly on the quarterback position, but regardless of who is under center, the Steelers need a formidable rushing attack to be competitive in 2025.
Four running backs the Pittsburgh Steelers could sign to replace Najee Harris
These three running backs are still available via free agency as of writing this. Maybe the Steelers will show some interest in one of these backs to replace Harris after the quarterback position has been settled.
JK Dobbins
JK Dobbins was actually leading the NFL in rushing yards before the Chargers played the Steelers early in the 2024 season. He had a career year in Los Angeles in Jim Harbaugh's run-heavy scheme, though he also failed to post his first 1,000-yard season. He finished with 905 yards and nine touchdowns in 13 games played.
The Steelers are familiar with Dobbins from his time in Baltimore, which means they're also aware of his concerning injury history. Dobbins has yet to play a full season, coming closest in his rookie season where he was a starter in one game in 15 appearances.
Because of the injury history, Dobbins could be had for cheaper. Over the Cap estimates his market at $1.6 million per year.
Rico Dowdle
Rico Dowdle is a name that lost a lot of steam in 2024. The Dallas Cowboys chose to stick with him as their primary back and the offense suffered - though, that was a combination of many factors, not just Dowdle.
Still, the 27-year-old back is a cheap option the Steelers could entertain adding to the group. He averaged 4.1 yards per carry when splitting time with Tony Pollard and averaged 4.6 yards per carry in a 1,000-yard season last year. Still, his stock is low and Over the Cap estimates his market at $1.255 million per year.
Of course, unlike Dobbins or Williams mentioned before, Dowdle doesn't necessarily fill the power back role that Harris once held in Pittsburgh.
Cam Akers
The free agent running back market is full of guys who sparked a time or two in their career but have ultimately failed to establish themselves as reliable starters. Cam Akers might be the ring leader of the bunch.
Akers has bounced around the league quite a bit for a guy who flashed potential early on with the Rams. Whether he's a locker room headache or if his injury concerns are too much to overlook, Cam Akers might be damaged goods.
If the Steelers want to take a serious gamble, he's one of the cheapest options who has had some success in the NFL. Over the Cap estimates his market is $1.175 million per year, and that's likely on a 1-year deal.
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The Pittsburgh Steelers should consider waiting until the NFL Draft
Realistically, none of these options are particularly tantalizing. While Harris certainly had his shortcomings as a running back, these four options have produced significantly less in roughly the same amount of time.
It's no secret the Steelers are interested in Asthon Jeanty, though it would take some resources to move up to select him. If that isn't feasible, the running back class in the draft is much more exciting than the free agency class.
Whether the Steelers go all out at the position in the first round or play patiently until the third, it might be in their best interest to avoid these backs and find someone fresh out of the college ranks.