Steelers training camp: Early winners and losers before the pads come on

Winner: Anthony McFarland Jr.

I feel like we have been here before. Following an impressive training camp and preseason in 2022, Anthony McFarland Jr. was ultimately released just ahead of the season. Despite the fact that he rushed for 5.7 yards per carry in exhibition action last year, it didn't seem to matter. McFarland's lack of special teams coverage ability ultimately cost him a spot on the roster.

This year, he is hoping for a different result. So far, the former Maryland product and 2020 fourth-round pick has impressed with his blend of quickness and speed. The undersized running back has already cranked off a few explosive runs (though no tackling has been permitted over the first four practices).

regardless, you can see the juice that McFarland has over other running backs on the roster, and this ability for explosive plays could really give Pittsburgh a spark on offense if he could carry it over to the regular season.

Now McFarland has to prove that he can be just as impressive in full pads. Possessing track speed is one thing, but he's never been a player who could shrug off many arm tackles. Perhaps this is the year he finally puts it all together. So far, he has been one of the most impressive players at Steelers training camp.