Steelers Eye Dynamic RB Deamonte Trayanum After Stellar Season

Steelers on the Hunt for a Star

The Pittsburgh Steelers are ramping up their search for running back talent to fill the void left by Kenneth Gainwell, who has signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after a standout 2025 season. With the upcoming NFL Draft looming, they are looking to bring in fresh legs and incredible talent.

Gainwell, who rushed for 537 yards and five touchdowns while adding another 486 yards through the air with three more touchdowns, proved to be a pivotal player for the Steelers. But with a new season on the horizon, coach Mike McCarthy must strategically carve out his offensive scheme, and the focus is now on bringing in players who can seamlessly integrate into his plans.

Meet Deamonte Trayanum

One player catching the Steelers' attention is Deamonte Trayanum from Toledo. Standing at 5-foot-10.5 and weighing 224 pounds, he recently showcased his physical prowess during Toledo's pro day, clocking impressive 40-yard dash times ranging from 4.52 to 4.56 seconds. Trayanum's agility is further evidenced by a short shuttle run of 4.18 seconds and an impressive vertical leap of 37 inches.

Trayanum's technique and strength are equally notable; he completed 27 reps on the bench press, signaling a commitment to physicality that would fit perfectly within the Steelers' gritty style.

“One prospect who was not at the combine but put on a show for scouts was running back Deamonte Trayanum,” highlighted Tony Pauline of Essentially Sports.

A Versatile Asset

Transitioning from Arizona State to Ohio State, Kentucky, and then to Toledo, Trayanum rushed for a total of 2,273 yards and an impressive 25 touchdowns across his six years in college football. What makes him even more enticing for Pittsburgh is his receiving ability; he completed his final season with Toledo by securing 21 receptions for 212 yards and two touchdowns.

What This Means for the Steelers

Bringing Trayanum into the fold would add much-needed versatility to the Steelers' backfield, creating more opportunities for the offense while giving McCarthy's quarterback some reliable options. Considering that Pittsburgh still has Jaylen Warren under contract, a fresh running back with Trayanum's capabilities could elevate their game to new heights.

The Future Awaits

As the team heads into the draft, the Steelers have their sights set on revamping their roster, and choosing Trayanum could be a game-changer. His skill set aligns with McCarthy's vision for a dynamic and multifaceted offense — one that can keep defenses guessing.

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