Steelers offseason positional primer: Running back options for 2024
By Andrew Falce
Steelers free agent RB options
Free agency is set to be filled with a whos-who of running backs from the league. Top names like Derrick Henry, Austin Ekeler, Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs, and Tony Pollard highlight a seemingly deep group this offseason. Even if a few of these names ink new deals, there will be some elite talent available in free agency.
The Steelers won’t be in that market given their pair of solid runners. You can’t afford to spend top money on a third back, and even the second wave of names like Devin Singletary and D’Andre Swift will likely cost too much to justify in that third role.
There are a handful of names that I think do make sense. Matt Breida has been my sleeper back to sign. He will be cheap given his age and lack of sustained success as a starter, but he has elite speed still and would be a good compliment to the more power-oriented backs in Pittsburgh.
Boston Scott is another interesting fit for this offense. He has carved out a career as a third back and change of pace option. He doesn’t do well when given a big workload, but he can provide a spark in limited usage. Chase Edmunds could also fill in as a speedy, change of pace back for this team.
No, the Steelers shouldn’t be in the market for a big-name running back as a free agent, but there are a handful of cheap veterans that would work well in this room. I think it would be a prudent move to find someone with some speed who is willing to play on a minimum deal.