GAINESVILLE, FL - APRIL 10: Running back Chris Rainey #3 of the Florida Gators is lifted up by his teammates during warm-up before the Orange & Blue game at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on April 10, 2010 in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by Doug Benc/Getty Images)
After a draft of trenchermen, the Steelers decide to get a little exciting in the 5th round.
There, they select the versatile and shifty Chris Rainey from the University of Florida. Much of Rainey's skill set can be used in Todd Haley's offense the same way he used Jamal Charles in Kansas City.
He has good receiving skills and high-level speed. He handled pass protection well, considering his diminutive size.
This is really a great pick for the Steelers in the 5th round. It gives them a level of athleticism they don't currently have in the backfield, and he can be used in a variety of ways.
With the future of Rashard Mendenhall in question as he rehabs from an ACL tear, Rainey could provide a change-of-pace dynamic to Isaac Redman's downhill, powerful style. It will be interesting to see he and last year's 7th round pick, Baron Batch, compete for playing time.
He's also a dynamic return man, giving the Steelers the kind of player they were looking for in this draft.


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