Steelers Offense Will Be Dynamic With James Conner and Jaylen Samuels in the Backfield
By Brian Cass
As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for their first season of the post-Le'Veon Bell and Antonio Brown era, James Conner will surely be the featured back after his breakout season in 2018, where he posted 1,470 total yards for the Steelers offense.
Although Conner is entering this season as the true No. 1 back, second-year RB Jaylen Samuels could add some versatility to the backfield. He showed flashes of what he can last season as a rookie, making him an intriguing second-option who could end making a real difference once the season rolls around.
The Steelers have never truly utilized a two-back attack when Le'Veon Bell was toting the rock, although DeAngelo Williams did thrive while Bell was sidelined with injury or suspension. It seems like every team nowadays is using at least two running backs, and if the Steelers believe they have two capable guys in Conner and Samuels, there's no reason they shouldn't both see some playing time.
Conner displayed his workhorse ability last season, so if Samuels can work in as a change-of-pace back who can catch the ball out of the backfield, the Steelers could have something great brewing in the run game.
Aside from the obvious help Samuels would provide mitigating the loss of Bell, his catching ability could also help with the loss of Brown a bit. He totaled 29 receptions for 199 yards with 3 touchdowns as a rookie.
It's been a long time since we've seen a two headed monster wreak havoc in the Steel City, but don't be surprised if this duo makes some headlines in 2019.