Steelers Predicted to Trade Stud Tight End After Jonnu Smith Deal with Dolphins

The Pittsburgh Steelers are making another roster adjustment ahead of their Week 6 matchup, reportedly adding a new running back to strengthen depth and special teams production. According to ESPN insider Adam Schefter, the Steelers are expected to sign a veteran running back to their practice squad — a move designed to bolster their kick return unit and provide experienced depth behind Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell. That player is Raheem Blackshear, a versatile back who previously played for the Carolina Panthers. Schefter noted that Blackshear’s signing is expected to focus primarily on his special teams expertise, particularly as a kick returner, where he has excelled throughout his career. During his time with Carolina, Blackshear averaged 26.3 yards per return from 2022 through 2024, making him one of the league’s more consistent return specialists. He also brings value as a pass-catching back, with experience returning punts and contributing in short-yardage offensive packages. The signing follows struggles from rookie Kaleb Johnson, who has averaged just 23.8 yards per return this season and suffered a crucial fumble in Week 4. Pittsburgh’s coaching staff has been exploring new options to stabilize the position, and Blackshear’s arrival could give them exactly that. Given the Steelers’ current injuries and depth concerns at running back, it wouldn’t be surprising if Blackshear were elevated to the active roster within the coming weeks. His combination of experience, reliability, and return ability could prove to be a quiet but important midseason addition for Pittsburgh.