Browns Host Former Steelers Running Back for Tryout

The Cleveland Browns are hosting former Steelers running back Benny Snell for a tryout, according to the NFL’s transaction wire. Snell played with the Detroit Lions this preseason but did not stick with the group and is looking for a new team. Cleveland is looking for running back help amid Jerome Ford’s high ankle sprain.

Snell, 25, had played his entire four-year career in with the Steelers since joining the team as a fourth-round draft pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.

The 5-foot-10, 224-pound running back was known for his powerful running style, dubbed “Benny Snell Football,” during his time at Kentucky. 

With the Steelers, snell started strong in 2019, but faded throughout the rest of his career. He rushed 108 times for 426 yards (3.9 yards per carry ) and two touchdowns as a rookie backup to James Conner in 2019.

In 2020, Snell started three games behind in place of Conner and rushed 111 times for 368 yards and four scores. His playing time fell further in 2021 when the Steelers drafted Najee Harris. Snell rushed 36 times for 98 yards.

Last season, he was passed on the depth chart by undrafted rookie Jaylen Warren. But despite his reduced role, Snell stepped up in the Steelers’ road win over the Indianapolis Colts.

Cleveland is dealing with a few injuries in their running back room. Ford’s ankle injury is the most recent, but Kareem Hunt is dealing with an injury, too. So, the team is looking for insurance, and Snell would provide that. Cleveland is familiar with Snell and his game, given that they played the Steelers twice yearly in the division. Pittsburgh opted not to bring Snell back this offseason after his rookie deal expired. Instead, they kept Anthony McFarland, who made his way onto the team but dealt with a knee injury. Godwin Igwebuike remains on the team’s 53-man roster currently.