With free agency on the horizon, we are looking closely at the needs on the Pittsburgh Steelers roster, especially those who might be filling via the 2021 NFL draft. Pittsburgh doesn’t have much to spend in free agency and most of their top free agents are going to leave.
One of those players is running back James Conner. His production has been on the downturn and his continued inability to stay healthy means it is time to move on. Here is a potential 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 I have Najee Harris fatigue. He’s a great back but do not underestimate the more explosive and complete game Ettienne brings.
Second round-RB Michael Carter, North Carolina
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Carter’s teammate Javonte Williams is getting all the attention but Carter would be a tremendous consolation prize in the second round. Carter really impressed at the Senior Bowl and his vision and burst would make him a great weapon in the Steelers backfield.
Third round-Rhamondre Stevenson
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If you insist on the Steelers drafting a big, bruising back, Stevenson is your guy. He’s quick and nimble around the line of scrimmage but once he reaches the second level he turns into a hammer.
Fourth round-RB Chris Evans, Michigan
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If Evans had been on the field more over the last two seasons, we might be talking about him among the top RB in this class. He has 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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Going back to a more elusive, speedy back we have Williams. He’s not big enough to be an every-down back but with his skill set, you don’t have to view him as just a niche-type of a player. He is a breakaway threat but has a complete game.
Seventh round-Javian Hawkins, Louisville
Scott Ulterback
Hawkins is another guy who is never going to carry a heavy NFL workload as a back but can be dynamic as a part-time player. Elusive with great speed, he’s going to be some team’s change-of-pace player.
