Last season, the Pittsburgh Steelers struck gold with running back Jaylen Warren. The undrafted rookie waited for an opportunity, and once it presented itself he took it and pushed Benny Snell to third string.
As we near the draft, Snell is unsigned. Warren looks to be locked in with Najee Harris as a true two-headed monster. The Steelers have some guys on the roster, namely Anthony McFarland Jr., who could be the third back in a pinch, but if things stay as they are, Pittsburgh could look to the draft and a very deep running back class.
Two names stand out among the players who will be available on the third day. The first is Kansas State’s Deuce Vaughn. Vaughn is a diminutive back with breakaway speed and more power than his size would indicate. His agility and quick cuts paired with his height make him a nightmare to find at the line of scrimmage, which allows him to turn tiny creases into big gains.
The other player to pay attention to is Tulane’s Tyjae Spears. Spears doesn’t have the build or vision to be an every-down rusher, but he might be the most complete pass catcher at running back in the entire draft. With exceptional hands and polished route running, Spears is the perfect third-down back and extra receiver in spread sets.
Let us know in the comments what you think will happen with the running back position. Does Snell return or will Pittsburgh go in another direction?
