Steelers: Benny Snell May Be Future Star

After an impressive effort in his first career start for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Benny Snell looks like a potential star-in-the-making.

So far this season, the Pittsburgh Steelers rushing offense has been largely abysmal. With starter James Conner battling injuries and ineffectiveness and Jaylen Samuels failing to step up as a starter over the last few weeks, things have been bleak when it comes to the ground game. In Week 12, however, we finally saw signs of production as rookie Benny Snell returned from his own injury to give the Steelers offense a much-needed boost. In his first career start, Snell not only showed he belongs in the NFL, but he also displayed the potential to develop into a star.

A hard-nosed runner known for his physicality, Snell’s throwback style of play is fun to watch. In a league where running backs have become dependent on avoiding contact and often use a variety of moves to shake off defenders, Snell seems to welcome contact, using his power to overwhelm defenders. It isn’t always pretty, but it’s hard to argue with the results, especially after his 98-yard day against the Cincinnati Bengals. On a day when Mason Rudolph was benched and the Steelers passing offense sputtered for most of the day, Snell was needed more than ever and he delivered.

Moving forward, Snell deserves a large role in the Steelers offense. When Conner returns he will be the starter, but as a change-of-pace and short-yardage back, Snell could be a tremendous piece of the rushing offense. In a season filled with offensive miscues and injuries, Snell has shown flashes of brilliance.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have long relied on a strong rushing game to power their offense. Based on what he’s shown so far, Snell might be the team’s next star carrying the ball.