Pittsburgh Steelers: 5 Training camp standouts for 2018
By Randy Gurzi
4. Jaylen Samuels, RB/FB
What made Jaylen Samuels interesting coming out of North Carolina State was the different ways he could get on the field. He’s considered a running back, but after playing mostly at tight end for the Wolf Pack, he could be moved around by the Steelers — who took him in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
So far in camp, that’s been the case. He’s lined up in the backfield and in the slot for Pittsburgh and to be honest, he hasn’t been a star everywhere. He’s had to learn more about the importance of blocking during these practices and has had his share of struggles.
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That’s to be expected though when you take a young guy, put him in a new environment, and then give him multiple jobs. The good news for Samuels though is he stood out during the spring sessions according to guard Ramon Foster and he’s still getting more snaps at different spots which shows the staff likes what they have seen.
While at North Carolina State, Samiels had 201 receptions for 1,851 yards and 19 touchdowns. He added another 1,107 yards and 28 touchdowns on the ground — according to sports reference. He lasted until the fifth because he had no true position at the next level bit the Steelers are trying to find him one.