Benny Snell Football in Carolina

[Steeler Nation]

It’s been a rough off-season for Pittsburgh Steelers running back Benny Snell. The Steelers went out and drafted James Conners replacement without even giving the former fourth round pick an opportunity to claim the spot. If that wasn’t bad enough he’s missed most of training camp, and could be on the outside looking in after cut down day.

Running backs Anthony McFarland, and Kalen Ballage have had strong preseasons, while Snell has been sidelined with an injury. McFarland was guaranteed a roster spot due to his skill set, but the strong performance by Ballage certainly hurts Snell. The Steelers aren’t likely to keep more than three running backs and Derek Watt at full back.

“We’re excited about getting Benny Snell back,” Mike Tomlin said. “He’s missed some time due to injury. He’ll get an opportunity, particularly in the early stages of the game to do the things that feature runners do and prove his health.”


With Najee Harris sitting out Friday it appears that Snell will get the start. The Steelers coaches are familiar with what Snell brings to the table. He’s been here for three years. So there isn’t much that he’s going to show them that they don’t already know, but he could force them to keep an extra running back with a strong performance.

On the other hand a lack luster performance could seal his fate in Pittsburgh.

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[CoolieMan]

I think snell makes the cut.

 

[SteelerSask2]

I think snell makes the cut.

How is that possible. Based upon what. He is putting out tape for another team that's all. They let the lead back walk, which means they will let him walk for sure. Harris, Ballage, McFarland are already on this team. Samuels at least has had moments and is a different type of back Snell is like Harris and Ballage. Gone for sure.

 

[CoolieMan]

How is that possible. Based upon what. He is putting out tape for another team that's all. They let the lead back walk, which means they will let him walk for sure. Harris, Ballage, McFarland are already on this team. Samuels at least has had moments and is a different type of back Snell is like Harris and Ballage. Gone for sure.

they have to keep him so they can trade Snell and a 4th rounder for Ben's replacement

 

[wig]

Ballage has looked good in preseason, but... you know. Preseason. The only game that matters even a little bit is game 3 although I do think he had a pretty good game, albeit against a few 2nd string guys.

Snell, like him or not, has been here for a few years and knows the system, the coaches, the process, if you will. I'm not saying Tomlin won't cut him, but he's the odds on favorite to make the team if Tomlin's loyalty to players is any indication.

 

[alancac98]

well, they cut Antoine Brooks because they couldn't evaluate him due to injuries. Why do they have a different stance on Snell? He should have been shown the door on the last cuts. Just maybe it is because he will play tonight vs Brooks still injured, idk. You can't make the club from the tub. (at least shouldn't unless you are a known starter, which he isn't!)

 

[steel dino]

When Snell is 100% healthy......he is still not as good as Ballage.

Snell is auditioning for other teams GM's tonite.

 

[mightyguru]

When Snell is 100% healthy......he is still not as good as Ballage.

Snell is auditioning for other teams GM's tonite.

bingo.

 

[SteelerFan448]

I want Snell to succeed, I just don’t see room for him on the depth chart. You don’t draft Harris to only keep 4 running backs in the roster and distribute the carries.

 

[stillerfaninfl]

The stillers have Harris, Ballage, McFarland. Is Snell good enuf to be #4?... better than Samuels and Edmunds?? Maybe he'll stick around. I am betting not.

 

[Drink IRON City]

they have to keep him so they can trade Snell and a 4th rounder for Ben's replacement

Whew,.... thank GOD it's only for Ben's replacement, for a second there I though you looking for 2- 1sts from Cleveland after the trade deadline.



Salute the nation

 

[Drink IRON City]

PS

Good write up Justin and thanks for the insight.


NO, Snell doesn't squeak the cut. He will be getting on with his "life's work" whether with another team or the general public. Good luck to him.!




Salute the nation

 

[bigben]

I would have rather seen the Steelers keep Kerrith Whyte than Benny Snell. Snell is not NFL caliber, James Conners durability was the only reason he ever saw playing time.

 

[Superman]

Harris - Ballage - Snell - McFarland

 

[Litos]

they have to keep him so they can trade Snell and a 4th rounder for Ben's replacement

Fu 2.0

 

[Steelmann]

The life of a NFL player.......we were all so excited when the Steelers drafted him. Critics around the country loved the pick......3 years later.......

 

[black and gold apex]

He should not make this team, will Tomlin admit was a mistake in the first place

 

[Bluesteel]

With Etienne out, trade Snell to the Jags for our 6th rnd pick back!

 

[SteelerInLebanon]

With Etienne out, trade Snell to the Jags for our 6th rnd pick back!

So we have to send our 6th to get rid of him?

 

[Black & Gold Bleeder]

Harris - Ballage - Snell - McFarland

youre retarded

 

[Tibs]

Harris - Ballage - Snell - McFarland

This

People discount Tomlin's infatuation with Benny Snell. For better or worse he believes in the kid 100%. So those would be the four we keep, though as far as PT, I think the rotation will be more like:

Harris - McFarland - Ballage - Snell

With Najee *dominating* snaps in a major way, including 3rd downs.

 

[Black & Gold Bleeder]

is retarded

 

[TDX27]

Snell certainly didn't earn a roster spot tonight. Ballage is definitely ahead of him and possibly Samuels for his receiving ability.

 

[black and gold apex]

Tomlin needs to be the head coach and not fall in love with a player, that has not proven he can get the job done. That is why we continue to fall on our faces at end of year. Samuels who all despise did better in three plays than Snell all night

 

[Confluence]

With Etienne out, trade Snell to the Jags for our 6th rnd pick back!

I think the present package includes Snell, Berry and Dobbs for the Jags cb.