With the free agency on the horizon, we’re looking closely at the needs of the Pittsburgh Steelers list, especially those that may be fulfilling through the NFL’s 2021 draft. Pittsburgh does not have much to spend on a free agency and most of its best agents will leave.
One of these players is running back James Conner. Its production is declining and its continued inability to stay healthy means that it is time to move on. Here is a potential replacement for Conner in every round of the next round for the Steelers to consider.
First round – RB Travis Etienne, Clemson
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Sorry, I’m tired of Najee Harris. He’s a great defender, but don’t underestimate the most explosive and complete game that 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 in the Senior Bowl and his vision and explosion would make him a great weapon in the Steelers’ backfield.
Third round – Rhamondre Stevenson
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If you insist that the Steelers prepare a big, sore back, Stevenson is the guy. He is fast and agile on the line of scrimmage, but when 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 pitch more in the past two seasons, we could be talking about him among the best RBs in this class. He has all the skills, but his last production tape is in 2018.
Fifth round – Chuba Hubbard, Oklahoma
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Like a pure runner, Hubbard brings a lot to the table. No less important is the speed of the track and the ability to find seams in a zone blocking scheme. It remains to be seen how his game will translate into 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 and quick return, we have Williams. He’s not big enough to be a complete defender, but with his skill set, you don’t need to see him just as a niche player. He is an escape threat, but he has a complete game.
Seventh round – Javian Hawkins, Louisville
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Hawkins is another guy who will never carry a heavy NFL workload on his back, but he can be dynamic as a part-time player. Evasive with great speed, he will be the player of change of pace of some team.