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5 bold predictions for Steelers in 2019

By Rucker Haringey

PITTSBURGH, PA - OCTOBER 07: Head coach Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers looks on during the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Heinz Field on October 7, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - OCTOBER 07: Head coach Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers looks on during the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Heinz Field on October 7, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) /
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PITTSBURGH, PA – DECEMBER 16: Jaylen Samuels #38 of the Pittsburgh Steelers reacts after a first down in the third quarter during the game against the New England Patriots at Heinz Field on December 16, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA – DECEMBER 16: Jaylen Samuels #38 of the Pittsburgh Steelers reacts after a first down in the third quarter during the game against the New England Patriots at Heinz Field on December 16, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

4. Jaylen Samuels will produce 1,000 yards from scrimmage

The Steelers coaching staff knows that James Conner shouldered too much of the offensive load last season. They are committed to going to more of a timeshare in the backfield. That should really benefit Samuels.

He’s not a traditional runner that will pound defenses inside, but he is an exceptional pass catcher out of the backfield. Don’t be surprised to see Pittsburgh give him meaningful snaps in the slot as well. Samuels can be a mismatch for this offense all over the field.

If he can improve his traditional running just enough to keep opposing defenses honest,  he’s poised to have a big year. The ideal mix for Samuels would be to end up with about 500 yards on the ground and 500 through the air. That would make the Steelers offense less predictable while also giving Conner some much-needed time on the sideline.

Benny Snell could also emerge as a factor here, but chances are Samuels is going to get the bulk of the work as Conner’s backup. The former NC State star has the talent to make a lot of plays out in space. He isn’t going to cause anyone to forget about Bell’s dynamic work out o the backfield, but he can be a huge weapon for Roethlisberger and company.

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