Former NFL GM Urges Steelers to Acquire Top Running Back

The trade deadline is coming in just a few days, and the Steelers could be buyers as they sit at 4-2 and right in the thick of the AFC North race. While they could look to add a defensive back or another position, one place they will likely not look to add is at running back. But former NFL general manager Jeff Diamond believes the Steelers should go out and acquire Derrick Henry or Dalvin Cook as their big deadline move.

“Najee Harris leads the team with 300 rushing yards (3.9-yard average),” Diamond said. “Second-year QB Kenny Pickett (81.3 passer rating, which ranks 25th) and the team’s 31st-ranked offense would be helped immensely by adding quality back to split snaps with Harris. Tennessee’s Derrick Henry, who has 425 rushing yards this season, or Dalvin Cook who is seeing limited duty with the Jets behind Breece Hall, are good options. The Steelers could acquire either back for a mid to late-round pick since they’re both free agents in 2024.”

Diamond, a former general manager who retired after working with the Vikings and Titans, suggested this, which is questionable at best. Jaylen Warren is more than acceptable as the complement to Harris and has suited himself into the offense nicely. If there is an issue with the offense, another receiver or linemen could be added. Henry and Cook would not move the needle nearly enough to justify the Steelers making the move.

Meanwhile, the Ravens have been linked to the Henry sweepstakes, which makes far more sense. Henry is in the final year of his contract, so the Ravens could get him for 2023 and then turn things back over to Dobbins when he returns from injury next season. The Ravens also have just enough salary cap space to absorb the remainder of Henry’s salary for the 2023 season.

If Pittsburgh does make a move, they have until the NFL trade deadline, which is 4 p.m. on Oct. 31, to work it out. Don’t expect that move to be a running back, though, even if Diamond thinks they could use that help.