With free agency on hand, we take a close look at the needs of the Pittsburgh Steelers roster, especially those potentially fulfilled by the 2021 NFL draft. Pittsburgh does not have much to spend on free agencies, and most of their best free agents are going to leave.
One of the players jogs back James Conner. His production has dropped and his continued inability to stay healthy means it’s time to move on. Here’s a possible replacement for Conner in every round of upcoming backs the Steelers could consider.
First Round RB Travis Etienne, Clemson
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Sorry I got Najee Harris tired. He is a good back, but does not underestimate the more explosive and complete play that Ettienne offers.
Round 2 – Michael Carter, North Carolina
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Carter’s teammate Javonte Williams gets all the attention, but Carter will be a huge consolation prize in the second round. Carter was very impressed with the Senior Bowl and his vision and burst would make him a great weapon in the Steelers backfield.
Third Round-Rhamondre Stevenson
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If you insist the Steelers set up a big, bruised back, Stevenson is your guy. He is quick and agile around the line of scrubbing, but as soon as he reaches the second level, he turns into a hammer.
Fourth Round RB Chris Evans, Michigan
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If Evans has been more on the field the past two seasons, we might be talking about him among the best RBs in this class. He has all the skills, but his last productive band is back in 2018.
Fifth Round Chuba Hubbard, Oklahoma State
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As a pure runner, Hubbard brings a lot to the table. Not the least of which is track speed and the ability to find seams in a zone blocking scheme. It remains to be seen how his game will translate to the NFL, especially with his lack of production in the passing game.
Sixth Round – Pooka Williams, Kansas
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If we go back to a more elusive, fast back, we have Williams. He’s not big enough to be a fullback, but with his skill you do not have to consider him a niche-type player. He is a breakaway threat but has a full game.
Seventh Round Javian Hawkins, Louisville
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Hawkins is another man who will never carry a heavy NFL workload as a back, but as a part-time player can be dynamic. Evasive with great speed he will become some team’s tempo changer.