The Pittsburgh Steelers completed their first OTA session on Wednesday, with the major news being rookie fifth-round pick cornerback Terry Hawthorne being seen on crutches. As per David Todd (ESPN 970 Radio), Hawthorne should be ready for camp after having some bone chips removed from the right knee. While Hawthorne will be in a battle in the secondary, it is the battle in the backfield that Steelers 101 will focus on in this article.
The running game has been hot and cold over the past few seasons, mostly cold according to the majority of fans. Of course, the causes are many, no consistency from the backs, a battered offensive line, and questionable play calling. There have been some changes in the backfield, some roster related and some schematic heading into 2013, which should see an improved rushing attack.Gone are Rashard Mendenhall (UFA) and Chris Rainey (Released), two talented players, who never truly lived up to their athletic ability in Pittsburgh due to injury and character concerns. Returning for the Steelers are Isaac Redman, Jonathan Dwyer and Baron Batch. They will be joined by rookie second-round selection Le’Veon Bell and unrestricted free agent signee skatback Larod Stephens-Howling.
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