clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

LaRod Stephens-Howling signs with the Steelers

The Steelers are picking up the speedy running back/kick returner on a one-year contract.

USA TODAY Sports

The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially agreed to terms with free agent running back LaRod Stephens-Howling. Financials of the one-year deal were not immediately available.

I don't know if this really says anything about Ahmad Bradshaw, since the two would be expected to fill separate roles for Pittsburgh next season. Depending on the size of the contract, it may take other moves to bring Bradshaw into the fold. But depending on how the draft goes, it could afford Pittsburgh the ability to make some cuts and bring Bradshaw in.

Stephens-Howling, a University of Pittsburgh product, will be a third-down back and utilized as a returner and special teams player - something the Steelers have been lacking since the release of Chris Rainey.

Stephens-Howling was a very solid kick-returner in the 2009 and 2010 seasons, but saw production in that capacity slip in each of the last two years.

Does this affect your hopes for the Steelers' 2nd and 3rd round picks tonight? Do you still think Ahmad Bradshaw should be a target?