When the Steelers decided to decline the fifth-year option of running back Najee Harris, it immediately raised valid questions about the future of the running back position in Pittsburgh. The Alabama product has been a big part of the offense since being drafted in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, accumulating three straight 1,000-yard seasons on the ground. But still, that wasn’t enough for the organization to guarantee his salary of $6.8 million dollars next season.
Only the decision makers at play know the exact reasoning behind that decision but it’s certainly fair to wonder whether the loaded 2025 NFL Draft running back draft class played a part in the Steelers coming to that conclusion.
Jaylen Warren also happens to be a restricted free agent for next season, but it’s difficult to see a scenario where he isn’t tendered and retained for at least another year. With the Steelers finally joining the rest of the NFL’s approach of running back by committee, it places a priority on finding a him a sufficient running mate. With Arthur Smith as the play caller, the need for multiple capable ball carriers and pass catchers only increases.
Today, we’ll review just a couple of the running backs that have stood out in a positive way during the summer scouting period.