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Dri Archer ran a 4.26 go-yard dash at the 2014 NFL Combine, the second fastest time ever and just .02 seconds slower than former Offensive Player of the Year Chris Johnson.
While that sounds like a recipe for success, no NFL career was based purely on speed, which Archer found out last year. The quick-footed running back from Kent State failed to carve out a niche as a kick returner and made very little noise as a running back, albeit behind one of the best all-around running backs in the league in Le’Veon Bell.
The Pittsburgh Steelers took Archer in the third round of the draft, higher than many teams had him pegged. The pick raised some eyebrows, as Bell was clearly the number one running back in Pittsburgh. It was –and still is — unsure how the Steelers plan to utilize Archer.
Archer was a playmaker in college, scoring a school record 24 total touchdowns with nearly nine yards per carry. That playmaking hasn’t translated to the NFL yet, as he didn’t find the end zone and spent most of the 2015 season on the bench.
The main question for Archer is, “how will the Steelers manufacture touches with him?” At 5-foot-8 and around 170 pounds, Archer won’t be running over linebackers or anybody anytime soon. He relies on speed, quickness and field vision to make defenders miss and get into open space. Instead of a traditional running back, Archer looks to be more of a hybrid player in the mold of Tavon Austin.
Archer will battle Markus Wheaton for kick return privileges in training camp in the preseason. Archer was given the chance to return kicks early in the season, but struggled and was replaced by Wheaton, who played well, but was not spectacular in the position. Look for Archer to challenge him for the job.
Archer will also get his chances in the first three games on the season while Bell is suspended. Deangelo Williams will be the feature back for that short stretch, but Archer will be an interesting change-of-pace option and target for screens and quick passes. Getting him into space is the main issue but when he gets there, it’s clear that he can do some damage.
Some people can get caught up in athleticism and how it could translate to the NFL field. But until it does, Archer goes into the season with a lot to prove.
