After a 10-7 season, the Pittsburgh Steelers and head coach Mike Tomlin face several questions, with the future of the tailback position uncertain due to Najee Harris likely departing in free agency.
Harris, who was a standout at Alabama, surpassed 1,000 rushing yards in each of his first four seasons. However, touchdowns were scarce for him in 2024, as he recorded just six — a career-low.
The Steelers declined Harris’ fifth-year option last spring, leaving the possibility open for his exit this offseason. Nevertheless, a final decision hasn’t been made, and the team could still opt to bring him back, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
The Steelers are anticipated to bring back third-year running back Jaylen Warren, who finished the season with 511 yards and one touchdown, behind Harris.
In NFL.com’s most recent mock draft by Chad Reuter, the Steelers are projected to address the running back position, given Harris’ looming free agency.
The Steelers are expected to use their No. 21 pick to select Ohio State running back Quinshon Judkins, keeping open the possibility of drafting a quarterback, like Alabama’s Jalen Milroe, in the second round.
Reuter highlighted that Judkins’ speed, ability to read blocks, and willingness to power through contact make him an ideal fit for Pittsburgh. “He’s a strong option for quarterbacks as an outlet from the backfield,” Reuter wrote.
Judkins, who stands at 6 feet and weighs 219 pounds, helped lead Ohio State to a national championship in 2024. He initially rose to prominence at Ole Miss in 2022, where he earned SEC Freshman of the Year and First-Team All-SEC honors after rushing for 1,567 yards and 16 touchdowns.
After a stellar sophomore season with 1,158 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns, Judkins transferred to Ohio State under head coach Ryan Day. He earned Third-Team All-Big Ten honors in 2024, with 1,060 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns.
A proven rusher, Judkins is also a versatile receiving threat out of the backfield, with 59 catches for 442 yards and five touchdowns during his college career.
He will have the chance to showcase his skills at the NFL Combine from February 27 to March 2, before the 2025 NFL Draft takes place in Green Bay, Wisconsin, from April 24-26.
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