The Pittsburgh Steelers' offense has struggled significantly in recent seasons, becoming the laughingstock of the NFL and leading to the historic midseason firing of Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada. The one reliable aspect has been the running back duo of Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren. These two were special in the 2023 season, keeping the offense moving, even when it was struggling.
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Pittsburgh Steelers running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren running drills during a practice.
Now, the Steelers have upgraded their offensive line and welcomed new Offensive Coordinator, Arthur Smith. Smith is eager to implement a new system that returns to a ground-and-pound offense, supported by improved quarterback play to alleviate some pressure on the running backs. This setup suggests that the Steelers' running back room should be one of the elite groups in the NFL.
However, not everyone would agree. Pro Football Focus recently released their rankings of the best 2024 NFL running back units, placing the Steelers at 17th. In a competitive league filled with star-studded running back rooms, being ranked 17th does not equate to elite status. PFF writer Trevor Sikkema provided his analysis behind this ranking.
“Both Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren were top-25 running backs in PFF wins above average in 2023. The Steelers ranked 13th in the league in PFF rushing grade from their running backs, and 14th in EPA per rush. Warren and Harris each averaged more than 4.0 yards per carry, as well, and the two remain a very solid duo for 2024.”
Sikkema acknowledges that the Steelers duo of Warren and Harris were exceptional during the 2023 season. However, his analysis seems inconsistent, as his points highlight why they should be ranked higher. Despite improvements in every area that supports running back success, the Steelers are still ranked in the bottom half.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris flies over San Francisco 49ers safety Talanoa Hufanga during Week 1 in 2023.
While this ranking might not hold much weight, it reflects the lack of respect the Steelers running back room has received all offseason. They have a legitimate dynamic running back room with Harris and Warren, bolstered by veteran kick returner Cordarrelle Patterson, who has also played running back over the last three seasons.
Steelers' Cordarrelle Patterson May See Some Reps At Running Back In 2024
It's uncertain whether Patterson will be limited to kick return duties, but insiders suggest he might have a more significant role in the offense. Giving Patterson some carries could be fruitful for the Steelers. He is a massive athlete who has been productive at the position. Although he wouldn't get a large number of carries, it would be exciting to see him involved in the offense. Having played under Smith before, Patterson's familiarity with the system is another positive.
Steelers.com
Steelers' Cordarrelle Patterson running drills with the team.
The Steelers' running back room is being overlooked. During the 2023 season, Warren and Harris carried the offense for most of the year. Warren stepped up significantly and is likely to earn more carries in the 2024 season. Harris, motivated after having his fifth-year option declined, is heading into free agency after this season. He will be aiming for a career year to boost his contract value and resume.
Everything is aligning for the Steelers' running backs to be dominant in the upcoming season. Harris is poised for a standout year, and Warren is only going to improve. With Smith now on board and a return to smash-mouth football, the Steelers' offense will draw a lot of attention in 2024. Harris and Warren will aim to dominate and prove that being ranked 17th is laughable.
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