The NFL Draft is not loaded at running back, but there are a few options.
One option includes former LSU star Clyde Edwards-Helaire. As the Pittsburgh Steelers enter a contract year for James Conner, the franchise seems like a perfect landing spot for the potential prospect.
According to some NFL prospects, Edwards-Helaire has potential to be a receiving back like Carolina Panthers’ standout Christian McCaffery.
“Among RBs, Clyde Edwards-Helaire is the best route runner to come into the league since Christian McCaffrey,” via Graham Barfield. “CMC is a little more versatile, but few backs consistently create separation against LBs like Edwards-Helaire.”
The Steelers appear to be undecided about the future of Conner. His rookie contract is set to expire after this season. Conner will likely command a larger salary, and the Steelers have the 27th ranked amount of cap space available.
Among RBs, Clyde Edwards-Helaire is the best route runner to come into league since Christian McCaffrey. CMC is a little more versatile, but few backs consistently create separation against LBs like Edwards-Helaire.
— Graham Barfield (@GrahamBarfield) April 15, 2020
Given his injury history, the Steelers might let him walk. Then again, the Steelers only have $5.77 million in cap space.
With defensive studs T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick expected to be asking for big bucks, it might be time for GM Kevin Colbert to look into bringing a running back for the future.
The Steelers have drafted well at the position, given that the last two franchise running backs have been Conner and Le’Veon Bell.
With a new regime likely taking over in two years, Ben Roethlisberger is 38 years old, taking one of the best pass-catching running backs in the draft seems like a logical choice.
Edwards-Helaire averaged 6.6 yards per carry for LSU. The 21-year old seems like an intriguing prospect. Having a backup plan wouldn’t hurt anyone.