A Promising Running Back Depth for the Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers, in the year 2023, find themselves in an enviable position with their running back depth, a luxury they haven’t had in quite some time. However, despite their abundance of talent, the Steelers have not been immune to trade rumors involving their running backs.
The Jonathan Taylor Trade Speculation
Recently, on September 27, an intriguing trade possibility emerged, with Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox naming the Pittsburgh Steelers as a potential landing spot for Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor. Knox’s rationale was that the Steelers might benefit from Taylor’s talents, especially since their 2021 first-round pick, Najee Harris, has been struggling to perform up to expectations on the ground.
Taylor’s Impressive Resume
Jonathan Taylor is a standout running back in the NFL, having clinched the rushing title in 2021 with a whopping 1,811 rushing yards. He also led the league in both rushing touchdowns and carries that season, showcasing his undeniable prowess.
Taylor’s Recent Struggles
However, since his remarkable 2021 season, Taylor has faced challenges. In 2022, he managed just 861 rushing yards in 11 games due to an ankle injury and a struggling Colts offensive line, which resulted in a drop in his yards per carry average. Additionally, Taylor’s contractual situation added a layer of controversy, as he sought a contract extension during the summer but found no common ground with the Colts.
The Colts’ Deadline Drama
The Colts set an arbitrary deadline for trading Taylor before the season, but no deals materialized due to a lack of suitable offers. Despite these circumstances, Taylor will return from the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list after Week 4, and reports suggest he remains interested in a trade.
The Steelers’ Running Game Progress
In light of the Steelers’ improving running game, the likelihood of a trade involving Taylor to Pittsburgh appears low. After a slow start in the first two weeks, the Steelers managed 105 rushing yards against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 3, with Najee Harris leading the charge.
Conditions for a Taylor Trade
Though neither Harris nor Jaylen Warren has set the stat sheet on fire this season, with neither averaging more than 4 yards per carry in 2023, the Steelers’ confidence in their running back duo remains steadfast. Harris, in particular, has a history of producing despite a lower yards-per-carry average.
For the Steelers to seriously consider a trade for Taylor, it would likely require an injury to either Harris or Warren, given the team’s faith in their current running backs.
The Ravens and Other Contenders
Interestingly, the Baltimore Ravens have also been identified as a potential destination for Jonathan Taylor. With the Ravens losing J.K. Dobbins for the season due to injury, the Steelers might have to consider outbidding their division rivals to prevent Taylor from bolstering the Ravens’ already formidable offense.
In the broader NFL landscape, the Cleveland Browns are also in the market for additional running back depth following Nick Chubb’s season-ending knee injury in Week 2, adding another layer of intrigue to the trade deadline.
The Steelers’ Running Back Dilemma
As trade rumors swirl, the Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves at a crossroads in 2023 with their running back situation. While the idea of acquiring a talent like Jonathan Taylor is enticing, the team’s recent improvement in the running game and the confidence they have in their current running backs may make a trade unlikely. However, the NFL landscape is always evolving, and the Steelers must carefully consider their options as the trade deadline approaches.
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