BREAKING NEWS: Pittsburgh Steelers Show Strong Draft Intent and Renewed Backfield Focus With Key Interest in Former Oklahoma RB and Ohio State Standout
In a significant development that is making waves across the NFL, the Pittsburgh Steelers have once again made a powerful statement regarding their commitment to building an elite offensive unit. Sources close to the organization have confirmed that the team is expressing strong interest in two standout running backs—Trey Sermon, formerly of the University of Oklahoma (and later Ohio State), and Najee Harris, the former Alabama Crimson Tide star currently on the Steelers’ roster. Though Harris is already a part of the team, the growing interest in Sermon signals a strategic move aimed at reinforcing and redefining the Steelers’ ground game for the seasons ahead.
This recent update comes during a critical period in the offseason when teams are evaluating talent, planning their roster moves, and executing draft strategies that could shape the future of their franchise. For Pittsburgh, the focus is clearly centered on revitalizing their backfield depth and performance by targeting high-upside players with proven track records at the collegiate and professional levels.
Trey Sermon: A Proven Playmaker From Two Powerhouse Programs
Trey Sermon is no stranger to the spotlight. Beginning his college career with the Oklahoma Sooners, Sermon quickly made a name for himself as a dependable and explosive back with excellent vision, balance, and the ability to gain yardage after contact. During his time with the Sooners, he delivered a series of standout performances, consistently showcasing his ability to find holes, break tackles, and contribute as both a runner and receiver out of the backfield.
Sermon later transferred to Ohio State, where he cemented his legacy during the 2020 season. His most memorable performance came in the Big Ten Championship Game against Northwestern, where he rushed for a record-breaking 331 yards—setting a single-game school record. That historic performance not only elevated his NFL Draft stock but also highlighted his capacity to dominate on the biggest stage.
After being selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the 2021 NFL Draft, Sermon has seen limited opportunities due to team depth and injuries. However, league insiders believe he still possesses significant upside and could thrive in a system like Pittsburgh’s, which emphasizes a physical and balanced offensive approach.
Najee Harris: The Powerhouse Already Wearing Black and Gold
On the other hand, Najee Harris, a player many fans already associate with Pittsburgh’s modern identity, continues to be a central figure in the Steelers’ offensive strategy. Drafted in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Alabama, Harris has proven himself to be a workhorse back, capable of carrying a heavy load and grinding out tough yardage even when the offensive line hasn’t been ideal.
Over his first few seasons, Harris has racked up solid rushing totals and served as a reliable safety valve in the passing game. While he’s shown great durability and toughness, Pittsburgh’s coaching staff appears to be interested in easing his workload by adding a complementary back—someone who can split carries, reduce wear and tear, and allow the team to diversify their ground game.
Trey Sermon could be just that. The pairing of Harris and Sermon, both former college stars and highly respected young talents, could bring a thunder-and-lightning dynamic to the Steelers’ backfield—a bruising, powerful runner in Harris alongside the smooth, elusive style of Sermon.
Strategic Implications for the Steelers
The Steelers’ apparent desire to strengthen their running back corps by showing draft-level interest in Trey Sermon is not just a tactical decision—it’s a reflection of how seriously the team is taking its offensive overhaul. Following several seasons of inconsistency on offense, Pittsburgh appears focused on returning to its roots: controlling the clock, winning the trenches, and wearing down defenses with a punishing run game.
Adding a second reliable running back to pair with Harris would not only add depth but also provide insurance against injury and open up more creative play-calling possibilities. It would also allow the team to use Harris more strategically—preserving his health over the course of a 17-game regular season and potential playoff run.
Furthermore, both players share a common trait: high character and coachability. Sermon and Harris are known for their professionalism, work ethic, and commitment to team success—qualities that align perfectly with the culture Mike Tomlin has fostered in Pittsburgh over the years.
Reactions Across the League
News of Pittsburgh’s interest in Sermon has generated buzz among analysts, with many suggesting that the move could rejuvenate the Steelers’ offense and help balance the workload for Harris. Fans on social media are largely welcoming the idea, with many citing Sermon’s breakout games at the collegiate level as proof of his potential in the NFL.
One analyst from NFL Network commented,
“If Sermon is given a real opportunity to shine in Pittsburgh’s system, don’t be surprised if he becomes one of the biggest comeback stories of the year.”
Looking Ahead
While nothing has been made official yet, the Steelers’ intentions appear clear: they’re building a backfield capable of contending in a highly competitive AFC. Whether it’s through the draft, free agency, or strategic trades, the addition of Trey Sermon to complement Najee Harris could prove to be a game-changing move.
As the team prepares for training camp and continues evaluating its roster, fans can expect more clarity in the coming weeks. But one thing is certain—the Steelers are committed to fielding a dynamic, efficient, and tough running game in the 2025 season and beyond.
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