Steelers Have Perfect Plan For Top Two Running Backs

The Pittsburgh Steelers have evolved their running game in recent years. For many years, they opted to use a traditional bell-cow back to take most of the snaps each year. In recent seasons, however, they have found success with a more modern running back by committee (RBBC) approach. It definitely helps to have that type of offensive strategy with Jaylen Warren on the roster, as his ability to do everything from that position allows the team to find the right type of back to complement him and accentuate his many strengths without wearing him down too much.

In the 2026 offseason, the Steelers signed Rico Dowdle to be that complement for Warren. He has had back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons to complement his new teammate's recent campaign where he amassed over 1,000 scrimmage yards for the second time in his career. It shouldn't be too hard for this coaching staff to come up with a good plan to maximize both of their strengths.

The plan is starting to become clearer. In his latest article from ESPN, Bill Barnwell explained exactly how Dowdle will be used in this offense as part of the RBBC.

"[Rico] Dowdle is an efficient zone runner who can break tackles at the second level, but he's not someone you necessarily want on the field often as a pass blocker," Barnwell said. "He's perfectly positioned as a rotation back behind Jaylen Warren in Pittsburgh."

Expectations are that the running backs will be considered 1A and 1B, as opposed to having a clear starter and backup each week. In this case, Barnwell sees Dowdle acting as the 1B due to his lack of ability in the passing game. He would be used as a guy that would try and create chunk plays from the run game exclusively, while Warren would do more of the dirty work.

A very likely scenario for the two rushers is that they would have their own drives. With Warren as the 1A, there are a lot more options for the offense due to his ability to run between the tackles, as well as help protect the quarterback and leak out as a receiver. Meanwhile, having Dowdle in the backfield would imply that there would be a heavy usage of stretch runs and play actions on that drive.

One thing both running backs excel at is the ability to get yards after contact. This is a team that is designed to let the offense know that they're going to run the ball, and the defense still won't be able to stop it. When both men have the ability to break through into the second level and beyond, it pressures the safeties and makes them come closer to the line of scrimmage, which opens up the deep passing game.

Steelers' Unique Offense Flips The Script On A Normal Running Back Tandem

In most offensive schemes, this dynamic would lead to Dowdle being the starter with Warren taking over as the third down back like he did to begin his career. However, Head Coach Mike McCarthy has shown a tendency to pass the ball on first down to set up the drive for success, which would make the fifth-year Steeler the primary option to start each series. 

It would not be surprising to see Warren come in for first and third downs while Dowdle comes in on second down and short-yardage situations. This constant rotation will force defenses to stay on their toes and be aware of all the different moving parts. They could easily get gashed anywhere on the field if they expect one rusher to be on the field, but get the other one. This could be a very fun dynamic if used properly.

What do you think about Barnwell's assessment of Dowdle, as well as how the two running backs could be used in this offense? Let us know on X at @Steelers_ChrisB.

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