Steelers trade options to upgrade RB after Najee Harris' recent decline

When Arthur Smith was hired to be the Steeler's new offensive coordinator, many thought the offense would show signs of improvement. While it has shown sparks at times, it has also been a letdown. Smith loves to maneuver his offense through the run game, and that has been the biggest disappointment yet. It seems like a group effort to get that part of the offense to fail as it's easy to cast blame.

Najee Harris is in his last year with the Steelers barring some magnificent turnaround. Both Jaylen Warren and Cordarrelle Patterson have missed stretches of the year due to injury. Something seems wrong with Harris. When Warren or Patterson enter the game, they seem to hit holes faster and break off more chunk yardage.

Harris doesn't seem to possess this skill and could make the Steelers desperate for an upgrade.

It might be time for the Steelers to trade for Najee Harris's replacement

Miles Sanders

Even though the Panthers have shown signs of improvement since benching Bryce Young, they should still be sellers before the trade deadline passes. Miles Sanders would be a terrific addition for the Steelers in a potential trade. They were linked to him coming out of college, plus Sanders is originally from Pittsburgh. He is under contract for another two years, which could be a problem.

Javonte Williams

Things have turned around for the Broncos since they lost to the Steelers earlier this season. They still seem primed to miss the playoffs, and they could trade some pieces before the deadline if they struggle. Javonte Williams has been in the rumor mill before, and Pittsburgh showed a ton of pre-draft interest in him. Williams is off to a slow start, but he would be a pure rental for the Steelers. He is also used to a duo at running back at Denver.

James Conner

The obvious choice here for the Steelers would be adding James Conner from the Cardinals via trade. His connection to Pittsburgh is strong, and a reunion would be a nice addition. Conner is still producing quality numbers both as a runner and catching the ball out of the backfield. Arizona isn't expected to make the playoffs, so Conner could be a nice rental option for the Steelers to upgrade over Harris. Fans would love the idea of bringing their beloved son home.

Travis Etienne

Not many people were expecting the Jaguars to fall off a cliff like they have. It could make some surprising names available via trade. Travis Etienne sticks out like a sore thumb with the Steelers. They expressed a lot of interest in him coming out of the draft. Etienne might be a better fit in Smith's offense than Harris. Etienne is a more explosive and versatile running back, which Pittsburgh needs right now.