I’m hoping Pickens crushes it in the playoff game, so they can get some trade value from him. If you cut him and get nothing, you might as well do a wholesale rebuild. When he isn’t playing at his best, this offense can’t do anything. When he is playing at his best, they aren’t too bad. His attitude has been a trend of Steelers WRs under Tomlin. Although, it seems to be a trend in the NFL in general. Tyreek Hill is a prime example and imagine many others that aren’t on winning teams likely have the local sports reporters covering them. Unfortunately they all can’t be Larry Fitzgerald.
Which is why I think Smith should get another year, if he is available and there isn’t another proven OC out there. I do think his bland offensive scheme can do well IF their O line solidifies and don’t have their top WR taking half of the plays off. Remember their #1 pick was on IR all season, Broderick Jones can’t seem to play both tackle sides, Semalu was out a chunk of the season and two rookies will now have a season under their belts. They should have a solid line.
If they can sign Harris cheap, he is the better early down back. If they had a consistently average O line, he’d be averaging 100 per game if featured. Warren is a change of pace back. If they don’t sign Harris, don’t expect Warren to be their #1, or at least be effective at it. A lot less holes on early downs and many gaping holes when third and long, to end up getting 6-7 yards, which really manipulates the YPC stats. Harris rarely gets carries in those situations. His long runs are usually against defenses focusing on the run. He’s no Barkley or Henry, but their line isn’t equal to theirs either. He would be a top 5 RB behind a quality line, which I think Steelers line is trending towards. The RB position is starting to change in NFL value. I’m not sure if they can get a top level back in round 3-4 like they could a couple years ago. Seems like teams are shifting to valuing the position a bit more. If Scattebo is available in 2nd round, fans would love that guy.