Though training camp is expected to start on time, what it will look like is anybody’s guess. When they do get back to work, among the groups that need the most attention are the running backs.
Looking back at 2019
One word for the RB unit: Ouch.
Out of necessity, the Steelers relied on a mish-mash of running backs after starter James Conner dealt with varying injuries over six games last season. Backups Benny Snell and Jaylen Samuels both had knee surgery and also missed a total of five weeks.
Conner was in and out of 10 games and ran for 464 yards, eclipsing the 100-mark in only one game. He was able to add 251 yards receiving and seven all-purpose touchdowns.
Snell appeared in 13 games (two starts) and rushed for 426 and two scores. Samuels was primarily used in the passing game (305 yards receiving) and managed just 175 yards on 66 attempts.
Unfortunately, the offensive line didn’t offer much help in the run blocking department. In 2018, they were ranked 15 in run blocking and regressed to 30th last season.
Looking ahead at 2020
The return of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will speak volumes for establishing the run game. As we witnessed in 2019, it’s a difficult feat to get yards gained on the ground without an air attack.
Signing fullback Derek Watt may signal an intent to utilize the position more to create running lanes. If the Steelers are truly looking to get Conner and company back on track, Watt should see a fair amount of offensive snaps.
Overall
We won’t know until the feet hit the field, but it appears as if head coach Mike Tomlin intends to use Conner for the bulk of the carries this season. He has long dismissed the running backs sharing workloads approach that many teams have adhered to for the past decade.
If Conner can stay healthy for 16 games — which he hasn’t been able to do yet — it could bode well for the team.
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