The Pittsburgh Steelers may look to the draft to add a running back if they lose Najee Harris or Jaylen Warren in the offseason.
The Steelers declined Harris’ fifth-year option before the 2024 season, essentially setting him up for a prove-it year, and he has done just that. Harris played every game for the Steelers for the fourth season straight, rushing for over 1,000 yards each season. He also tacked on six touchdowns on the ground.
Warren will be a restricted free agent after this season after tallying 821 total yards and one touchdown. Pittsburgh may look to the draft with the fate of both running backs up in the air next season.
In an early 2025 NFL mock draft, the Steelers are projected to land Boise State running back and Heisman Runner-Up Ashton Jeanty with the No. 22 pick, according to Bleacher Report’s NFL Scouting Department.
“The first certainty when working toward the 2025 NFL is now in place, as the league’s bottom 18 are set for the event’s order. The Pittsburgh Steelers value the running back position. They should continue to do so, especially if Russell Wilson returns as the starting quarterback.”
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“The Steelers brand is built on a tough ground-and-pound rushing attack complemented by a ferocious defense. While the game has changed over the years and Ben Roethlisberger’s career redirected the franchise’s trajectory, a back-to-basics approach will allow Pittsburgh to compete for years to come in an always competitive AFC North. Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty is a work horse capable of being the offensive focal point.”
Jeanty nearly broke Barry Sanders’ single-season college rushing record, coming up 27 yards short with 2,601 rushing yards. He ran for 29 touchdowns and added one receiving touchdown. Jeanty’s skill set would fit the Steelers’ mentality and would be a great addition to the team.
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