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Pittsburgh Steelers: Top 5 offseason additions, post 2018 NFL Draft

By Russell S. Baxter

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - SEPTEMBER 17: Jon Bostic #57 celebrates with Rashaan Melvin #30 of the Indianapolis Colts after a third down stop against the Arizona Cardinals during the first half at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 17, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - SEPTEMBER 17: Jon Bostic #57 celebrates with Rashaan Melvin #30 of the Indianapolis Colts after a third down stop against the Arizona Cardinals during the first half at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 17, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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PITTSBURGH, PA – OCTOBER 14: Jaylen Samuels #1 of the North Carolina State Wolfpack rushes for a 40 yard touchdown in the second half during the game against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Heinz Field on October 14, 2017 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA – OCTOBER 14: Jaylen Samuels #1 of the North Carolina State Wolfpack rushes for a 40 yard touchdown in the second half during the game against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Heinz Field on October 14, 2017 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /

5. Jaylen Samuels, RB (North Carolina State)

There’s little doubt that Le’Veon Bell is in the constant conversation in regards as to who is the best running back in the league. But the Pittsburgh Steelers are still looking to get him re-signed to a long-term deal. Each of these past two offseason, the club has slapped the exclusive franchise tag on the five-year pro. There’s little doubt that the organization does not want to part ways with the three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro.

This past season he finished second in the league in total yards from scrimmage (1,946) behind 2017 NFL Offensive Player of the Year Todd Gurley (2,093). Bell touched the ball and amazing 406 times thanks to 321 carries and 85 receptions. Throw in the fact that he is also one of the best blockers on the team and he is certainly one of the most complete players in the NFL. But that doesn’t mean that the team doesn’t need a little bit depth behind Bell.

A year ago general manager Kevin Colbert used a third-round pick on University of Pittsburgh running back James Conner. This offseason, the team re-signed veteran Stevan Ridley, who joined the team late last year. But the most intriguing new face when it comes to the Pittsburgh backfield is 2018 fifth-round draft choice Jaylen Samuels.

In his final three seasons at North Carolina State, he lined up in various roles and rolled up 2,719 yards from scrimmage and 45 touchdowns. It will be interesting to see what new offensive coordinator Randy Fichtner has in store for the versatile option.

Next: No. 4

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