From the very start of the off-season, the Pittsburgh Steelers prioritized upgrading both the interior of their defensive line and their backfield.
Following the departure of Najee Harris to the Los Angeles Chargers via free agency, the Steelers now have four running backs on their roster: Jaylen Warren, the recently signed Kenneth Gainwell, Cordarrelle Patterson, and Aaron Shampklin. Given the number of pre-draft visits they have scheduled with various running backs from the upcoming class, the team appears determined to identify the type of talent that can effectively optimize Arthur Smith's zone-running offense.
One name that has recently been linked to the Steelers is veteran J.K. Dobbins. Until this past season, much of Dobbins' career had been characterized by unrealized potential due to a series of injuries. However, in 2024, Dobbins achieved career highs with 195 carries, 905 rushing yards, and 153 receiving yards. Despite his impressive performance, the Chargers opted to sign Najee Harris instead of retaining Dobbins for the upcoming season.
In his latest piece for ESPN, Bill Barnwell identified the Steelers as one of the best fits for J.K. Dobbins' services. Should the team decide to sign him, they may choose to release one or both of Cordarrelle Patterson and Aaron Shampklin to make room on the roster. Last season, Dobbins demonstrated his ability to excel in a zone scheme under head coach Jim Harbaugh, positioning him as the ideal running back to potentially elevate the Steelers' rushing offense.
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