Steelers Eye Oregon’s Jordan James as Potential Late-round Gem at running Back
with Najee Harris now with the Los Angeles Chargers, the Pittsburgh steelers are exploring options to bolster their running back depth behind Kenneth Gainwell and Jaylen Warren. Oregon’s Jordan James has emerged as a compelling Day Three prospect who could seamlessly integrate into Arthur Smith’s offensive scheme.
Jordan James: A Sleeper Pick for Pittsburgh’s Backfield?
While the Steelers have immediate needs at defensive line, quarterback, and receiver, adding a running back with James’ skillset in the later rounds of the draft presents an intriguing prospect to solidify the position for the long term.James is not considered a top-tier prospect, allowing Pittsburgh to address more pressing needs early in the draft before potentially selecting him.
James’ Strengths: Agility, Vision, and Zone Scheme Experience
Despite his smaller stature (5-foot-09, 205 pounds), James compensates with remarkable agility, strength, and a knack for gaining yards after contact. He displays quickness and decisiveness, allowing him to exploit openings and thrive in the open field.
During his final season at Oregon in 2024, James rushed for an impressive 1,267 yards on 233 carries, averaging 5.4 yards per attempt. He also contributed 26 receptions for 209 yards and scored a total of 15 touchdowns. His production was a key factor in Oregon’s success throughout the season.
Oregon RB Jordan James, #20 playing games with Michigan LB #30. Presses inside, then the B gap, and buys time for the RG to get to the 2nd level, then makes the cut back upfield inside off the block. This guy is Niiiiice
April 8,2025
Fit with Arthur Smith’s offense
James’ experience in a zone-blocking scheme at Oregon aligns well with Arthur Smith’s offensive beliefs.He demonstrates excellent vision, patiently sets up blocks, and quickly bursts through the line of scrimmage. While Smith’s scheme isn’t exclusively zone-based, James’ familiarity with the system would allow for a smooth transition.
Although not primarily a receiving back, James offers value in the passing game, particularly on checkdowns. He has also lined up as a receiver from time to time,showcasing his versatility.
The Long-Term Outlook at Running Back
Kenneth gainwell is currently on a one-year deal, and Jaylen Warren is under contract through 2025. Drafting james would provide the Steelers with a cost-effective, four-year contract, ensuring stability at the running back position beyond the immediate future.
Projected Draft Position
James is expected to be available on Day Three of the NFL Draft, potentially as late as the sixth round.With a deep running back class this year, the Steelers could afford to address other needs earlier in the draft and still land a talented player like James in the later rounds.
Here are two PAA (Potential Actionable Analysis) related questions based on the article:
Steelers Eye Oregon’s Jordan James as Potential Late-round Gem at running Back
with Najee Harris now with the Los Angeles Chargers, the Pittsburgh steelers are exploring options to bolster their running back depth behind Kenneth Gainwell and Jaylen Warren.Oregon’s Jordan James has emerged as a compelling Day Three prospect who could seamlessly integrate into Arthur Smith’s offensive scheme.
Jordan James: A Sleeper Pick for Pittsburgh’s Backfield?
While the Steelers have immediate needs at defensive line, quarterback, and receiver, adding a running back with James’ skillset in the later rounds of the draft presents an intriguing prospect to solidify the position for the long term.James is not considered a top-tier prospect, allowing Pittsburgh to address more pressing needs early in the draft before potentially selecting him.
James’ Strengths: Agility, Vision, and Zone Scheme Experience
Despite his smaller stature (5-foot-09, 205 pounds), James compensates with remarkable agility, strength, and a knack for gaining yards after contact. He displays quickness and decisiveness, allowing him to exploit openings and thrive in the open field.
During his final season at Oregon in 2024,james rushed for an remarkable 1,267 yards on 233 carries,averaging 5.4 yards per attempt. He also contributed 26 receptions for 209 yards and scored a total of 15 touchdowns. His production was a key factor in Oregon’s success throughout the season.
Oregon RB Jordan James, #20 playing games with Michigan LB #30.Presses inside, then the B gap, and buys time for the RG to get to the 2nd level, then makes the cut back upfield inside off the block. This guy is Niiiiice
April 8,2025
Fit with Arthur Smith’s offense
James’ experience in a zone-blocking scheme at Oregon aligns well with Arthur Smith’s offensive beliefs.He demonstrates excellent vision, patiently sets up blocks, and quickly bursts through the line of scrimmage. While Smith’s scheme isn’t exclusively zone-based, James’ familiarity with the system would allow for a smooth transition.
Although not primarily a receiving back, James offers value in the passing game, particularly on checkdowns. He has also lined up as a receiver from time to time,showcasing his versatility.
The Long-Term Outlook at Running Back
Kenneth gainwell is currently on a one-year deal,and Jaylen Warren is under contract through 2025. Drafting james would provide the Steelers with a cost-effective,four-year contract,ensuring stability at the running back position beyond the immediate future.
Projected Draft Position
James is expected to be available on Day Three of the NFL draft, potentially as late as the sixth round.With a deep running back class this year, the Steelers could afford to address other needs earlier in the draft and still land a talented player like James in the later rounds.
Q&A: jordan James and the steelers
What’s the buzz about Jordan James?
Jordan James, the Oregon running back, is drawing attention as a potential late-round pick for the Pittsburgh Steelers.With Najee Harris gone, the Steelers are looking to add depth and James’ skill set seems like a good fit.
What makes James a good fit for the Steelers?
James has experience in a zone-blocking scheme,similar to what the Steelers’ offensive coordinator,Arthur Smith,uses. His agility, vision, and ability to gain yards after contact are all attractive traits. Also, he is a good receiving back.
What are James’ key strengths?
James is known for his agility, vision, and strength, despite being a bit undersized. He’s also a decisive runner who excels at finding and exploiting openings in the defense. His 2024 season stats at Oregon—1,267 rushing yards, 5.4 yards per carry, 15 touchdowns—speak volumes.
How does James fit into the Steelers’ long-term running back plans?
Kenneth Gainwell is on a one-year deal, and Jaylen Warren is under contract through 2025. Drafting James would provide the Steelers with a cost-effective, four-year contract, ensuring stability at the running back position beyond the immediate future.
When is James expected to be drafted?
James is projected to be available on Day 3 of the NFL Draft, possibly as late as the sixth round. The Steelers could address more pressing needs earlier in the draft and still potentially land him.
What is zone-blocking?
In zone-blocking, offensive linemen focus on blocking areas rather than specific defenders. This allows running backs to read the play and find the best running lane. James’ familiarity with this scheme could make his transition to the Steelers’ offense smoother.
Can James catch the ball?
While not primarily a receiving back, James has shown value in the passing game. He has contributed receptions for 209 yards and has lined up as a receiver, showing his versatility.
Interesting fact about Jordan James?
Jordan James was a key factor in Oregon’s success throughout the 2024 season,showcasing his ability to perform under pressure and contribute significantly to the team’s offense.
With the potential to add a talented and cost-effective running back, the Steelers could be making a smart move by targeting Jordan James in the draft. Keep an eye on Day Three!
