After an eventful offseason and several running backs changing teams during free agency, the Pittsburgh Steelers face a challenging schedule with opponents boasting strong rushing attacks.
These teams have significantly improved their ground games, making them even tougher. Here are the five most dangerous rushing offenses the Steelers defense will need to prepare for this season.
Top 5 rushing attacks the Pittsburgh Steelers will face
1. Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens, with Lamar Jackson at the helm, have consistently boasted one of the NFL's top rushing attacks since he became the starter in Baltimore. This offseason, the much-hated Ravens bolstered their ground game even further by signing Derrick Henry from the Tennessee Titans.
Stopping Jackson's running game was already a challenge, but with the addition of a powerhouse like Henry, it becomes an even more difficult task. Henry is one of the most physically imposing running backs in NFL history, and containing him has been a problem for many defenses throughout his career.
Jackson and Henry alone would be a formidable duo, but the Ravens also have solid backups in Keaton Mitchell and Justice Hill, who can contribute effectively when given touches. Stopping this Baltimore offense will be a monumental task, and the Steelers will undoubtedly have their hands full trying to contain this dynamic Ravens attack.
2. Atlanta Falcons
The Steelers kick off the season against the Falcons, a team boasting one of the league's youngest and most dynamic running backs, Bijan Robinson. Robinson is absolutely electric whenever he touches the ball, posing a dual threat both as a runner and in the passing game.
As the No. 8 overall pick last year, he had one of the most productive rookie seasons last year and is expected to be even more involved in the offense this year. Complementing Robinson is Tyler Allgeier, a quality running back who brings a different dynamic to the Falcons backfield. Together, Robinson and Allgeier add depth and versatility to Atlanta's offense.
3. Philadelphia Eagles
Another significant acquisition in free agency was top running back Saquon Barkley, who joined the Eagles. When Barkley is healthy, he ranks among the NFL's elite running backs. His addition to a team led by quarterback Jalen Hurts, also known for his rushing threat, makes the Eagles a strong force.
Philadelphia has long built its identity around a strong running game, and Barkley is a game-changer who enhances their already talented offense. With Kenneth Gainwell also contributing as a versatile back, particularly in the passing game, the Eagles offense appears poised to dominate. They are primed to be one of the top rushing teams in the NFL
4. Cleveland Browns
Nick Chubb suffered a devastating injury in Week 2 last season against the Steelers, leaving his return timetable uncertain for next season and raising questions about whether he will regain his pre-injury form.
However, if Chubb can return to full strength, he remains a cornerstone of the Cleveland rushing attack. The Browns have strategically bolstered their running back corps with talent, making it one of the NFL's strongest units.
In Chubb's absence, Jerome Ford stepped up admirably, contributing significantly throughout the season.
The depth of the Browns running back room, featuring Nick Chubb, Jerome Ford, D'Onta Foreman, and Nyheim Hines, is a clear asset. Coupled with the potential return of a healthy offensive line—one of the league's top units—the Browns ground game poses a significant challenge for opponents like the Steelers, who will face them twice a year.
5. New York Jets
The Jets rushing attack appears poised to dominate this season with Breece Hall leading the charge. Hall, a versatile playmaker, is poised to become the next superstar at his position. Adding to their depth, the Jets drafted Braelon Allen from Wisconsin in the fourth round of this year's draft, known for producing top-tier running backs.
With improvements in their offensive line and the potential return of a healthy Aaron Rodgers, the Jets offense is set to be much better Rodgers' presence alone promises to elevate their running game to new heights, making it a strong force for opponents to reckon with.