The Pittsburgh Steelers’ backfield is shaping up to be a two-headed monster this season, but one insider believes a clear top dog will emerge before Week 1.
Steelers correspondent Mark Kaloby took to X to share a bold prediction regarding the ongoing running back battle between Jaylen Warren and recent free-agent addition Rico Dowdle.
“I think a lot of us were under the impression that Rico Dowdle was a bruising running back cut from the mold of Jaylen Warren. He’s that, but he’s much more, too,” Kaloby posted. “Dowdle’s quickness, speed, vision and power make him much more than a platoon back. Even though Warren is very good, Dowdle will be the unquestioned RB1 when the season starts.”
That is a massive endorsement for Dowdle, especially considering the career year Warren just posted. After Najee Harris departed in free agency, Warren took the reins and rushed for 958 yards and six touchdowns on 211 carries last season. He also added over 300 receiving yards, totaling a career-best 1,291 yards from scrimmage.
However, Dowdle brings plenty of firepower of his own. Following an impressive stint with the Dallas Cowboys, the physical runner exploded with the Carolina Panthers last year. He tallied 1,076 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 236 carries, adding 39 receptions for 297 yards through the air. The Steelers signed him to a two-year deal this offseason to form a devastating one-two punch alongside Warren under head coach Mike McCarthy.
Pittsburgh recently released its initial preseason depth chart, listing Warren as the starter and Dowdle as the backup. Despite the official listing, training camp reports indicate the two backs are splitting first-team reps evenly. If Dowdle continues showcasing his elite vision and power in practice, Kaloby’s prediction could quickly become reality. Whether it forms a true committee or features one clear starter, this rushing attack will give opposing defenses nightmares all season long.
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ backfield is shaping up to be a two-headed monster this season, but one insider believes a clear top dog will emerge before Week 1. Steelers correspondent Mark Kaloby took to X to share a bold prediction regarding the ongoing running back battle between Jaylen Warren and recent free-agent addition Rico Dowdle.
