Steelers current running back room is young, just the way they like it

Apr 2019

The Pittsburgh Steelers added a rookie RB to their mix, and it adds to a very young, and green, depth chart.

The Pittsburgh Steelers knew they would have to take a running back somewhere in the 2019 NFL Draft. While not considered a Day 1 or 2 need, the team was going to have to add to their stable of backs at some point on Day 3.

In the 4th round they selected Benny Snell Jr, from Kentucky to their roster, and added him to a depth chart which consists of James Conner and Jaylen Samuels.

Gone is Le’Veon Bell and Stevan Ridley, two veterans among the backs, and what is left behind are a trio of young, hungry backs. In fact, the average age of the running backs is a whopping 22.6 years old.

Steelers running back room averages 22.6 years of age. RB coach Eddie Faulker said he’s actually excited about that.

— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly) April 27, 2019

For first year running backs coach Eddie Faulker, he is excited about the proposition of being able to take three young players, and maybe more, and molding them into a formidable group.

Conner is heading into his third season, Samuels his second and Snell his first. Talk about green, but Faulker isn’t deterred by such a task. His job is to put the best product on the field for the Pittsburgh Steelers that he can.

Will the team rely on a running back by committee approach? Not necessarily.

I asked Faulkner if he believes in backfield-by-committee. He talked about putting the best on the field, sort the details later. The interview was ended.

— James C Wexell (@jimwexell) April 27, 2019

It is safe to say Conner is by far the team’s top running back, but it doesn’t mean Samuels and Snell can’t have their roles too.

We know the versatility of Samuels and his pass-catching ability, but Snell brings a new dynamic to the mix. A big and powerful runner who never shies away from contact. Add in Conner’s one-cut downhill style and the Steelers now have a trio of backs who are all effective, but in their own way.

The Steelers could, and probably will, bring in more running backs either via draft or as Undrafted Free Agents, but if they head into 2019 with this trio as their base…everything should be just fine.

Stay tuned to BTSC for the latest news and notes surrounding the Steelers and their draft picks throughout the 2019 NFL Draft.

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