Steelers Open Window for Benny Snell Return

The Pittsburgh Steelers cleared a running back spot, and could fill it with a familiar face.

PITTSBURGH -- Why would the Pittsburgh Steelers release Master Teague III just 24 hours before the start of Organized Team Activities and, eventually, minicamp? 

The 23-year-old wasn't a sleeper in the eyes of many fans. Entering his second year with the team, the first being shortened by injuries, Teague was viewed as the potential third running back in Pittsburgh this season. Now, he's searching for his third NFL home, and meanwhile, the Steelers need another running back. 

The current roster holds Najee Harris, Anthony McFarland, Jaylen Warren, Alfonzo Graham and Jason Huntley. Last summer, the Steelers brought six running backs to training camp. They only held five during OTAs and minicamp, with a sixth joining in Latrobe. Maybe that's their plan this season. Or, maybe, they're opening the door for Benny Snell Jr.'s return. 

Snell remains on the free agent market well after the NFL Draft. The 25-year-old took a step back on the depth chart last season, being demoted for Jaylen Warren. But when called upon in Week 12 due to injuries, the veteran ran for 62 yards and a touchdown, putting the offense on his back in a victory over the Indianapolis Colts. 

Snell wouldn't return to Pittsburgh with an opportunity to beat out Warren, but rather compete with McFarland, Graham and Huntley for the final roster spot. And what the former fourth-round pick brings is worthy of a spot on some rosters - including the Steelers.

Snell's abilities on special teams and in pass protection were always impressive. It earned him the upper hand over McFarland last summer and could be the reason Pittsburgh brings him back for another year. 

Allowing McFarland, Graham and Huntley to compete for the final spot feels very Steelers-like. Head coach Mike Tomlin has always held a strong interest in McFarland's skillset, and the Steelers tried last summer to utilize him as a versatile player out of the backfield. He could very possibly be the team's top option for RB3.If they decided not to bring back Snell, it wouldn't be overly surprising or really have much impact on the roster. But clearing up two roster spots, including a running back, doesn't come without questions. 

A return of Benny Snell could be on the horizon for the Steelers. 

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