With free agency on the horizon, we’re looking closely at the needs on the Pittsburgh Steelers roster, especially those who might fill through the 2021 NFL draft. Pittsburgh doesn’t have much to spend on free agencies and most of their best free agents will leave.
One of those players runs back to James Conner. His production is on the decline and his continued inability to stay healthy means it is time to move on. Here’s a possible replacement for Conner in every round of the upcoming back for the Steelers to consider.
First Round – RB Travis Etienne, Clemson
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Sorry to have Najee Harris fatigue. He’s a great back, but don’t underestimate the more explosive and complete game that Ettienne brings.
Second Round – RB Michael Carter, North Carolina
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Carter’s teammate Javonte Williams gets all the attention, but Carter would be a great consolation prize in the second round. Carter really impressed the Senior Bowl and his vision and outburst would make him a great weapon in the Steelers backfield.
Third Round – Rhamondre Stevenson
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If you insist the Steelers make a big bruise, then Stevenson is your man. He’s fast and nimble around the scrimmage, but once he gets to the second level he turns into a hammer.
Fourth Round – RB Chris Evans, Michigan
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Had Evans been on the field more in the past two seasons, we might have talked about him as one of the best RBs in this class. He’s got all the skills, but his last productive tape is back in 2018.
Fifth Round – Chuba Hubbard, Oklahoma State
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As a pure runner, Hubbard brings a lot to the table. Not the least of which is track speed and the ability to find seams in a zone blocking scheme. It remains to be seen how his game will translate to the NFL, especially with his lack of production in the passing game.
Sixth Round – Pooka Williams, Kansas
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We go back to a more elusive, quick back, we have Williams. He’s not big enough to be an all-down-back, but with his skills, you don’t just have to see him as a niche type of player. He’s an escape threat, but has a complete game.
Seventh Round – Javian Hawkins, Louisville
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Hawkins is another man who will never carry a heavy NFL workload as a back support, but can be dynamic as a part-time player. Elusive at great speed, he will become a team’s substitute.