When it comes to NFL free agency, never say never.
But following the news that Jaylen Warren is coming back and given the way things have gone with Najee Harris in the past, the writing is on the wall for the Pittsburgh Steelers' former first-round pick.
That means finding a new starting RB.
And after some smoke heading into the Combine, it might as well be a full-on fire between the Steelers and an Ohio State RB...
Quinshon Judkins Showcases Speed at NFL Combine
Judkins was the thunder of the thunder-lightning duo in Ohio State's backfield. A bowling ball that is somehow fluid given his compact and muscle-bound frame, Judkins tested very well athletically.
Judkins earned a 95.6% composite athletic rating from NFL Draft analyst and A to Z Sports college football managing editor Travis May.
Judkins might be a tad shorter than Najee Harris but he's much more explosive on paper and has a similar frame and level of durability.
Oh and being in a backfield by committee saved a lot of miles on him...
In his one season at Ohio State, Quinshon Judkins was a great change of pace from TreVeyon Henderson with his running style. Judkins can put a guy in the dirt and is shifty enough to make a defender miss. Judkins being a replacement for Najee Harris makes a ton of sense on paper due to their similar running styles. At the combine, Judkins proved he was one of the better athletes in the draft to only up his stock. The Ole Miss transfer showed unselfishness by being willing to split touches with Henderson and 2024. Judkins was still able to cross 1,000 rushing yards while running for 5.5 yards per tote.
- Brandon Little, A to Z Sports Cleveland, Ohio State
The Steelers want size and pedigree from their backs. They want them to play with physicality, and if they aren't from the SEC, BIG 10, or ACC, you better be an Ashton Jeanty-level prospect for them to consider you as their starter.
So after checking off the one box many wanted to see from Judkins, quietly landing him in the second round may no longer be a reality for the Steelers. That leaves them with a decision to make when it comes to beating out the competition for a player who looks to be their best bet at starting in 2025.
