The Pittsburgh Steelers walk into the second day of the 2013 NFL Draft with a need at running back, but they're chipping away at that weakness.
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NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reported Friday that the team agreed to terms with former Arizona Cardinals running back LaRod Stephens-Howling on a one-year contract. The Steelerslater confirmed the move.
Stephens-Howling gives the Steelers a dynamic third-down back and a core special teams player who proved himself to be a dangerous return man during his four seasons in Arizona. His role on offense will hinge on how effective the Steelers are at finding creative ways to use Stephens-Howling in the scheme.
The Steelersremain interested in free-agent Ahmad Bradshaw, according to Rapoport, but even if they don't sign the former New York Giants running back, the presence of Stephens-Howling could mean trouble for Baron Batch's third-string roster spot.
Pittsburgh isn't out of the woods. The Steelers still lack a foundation at running back, and we expect the team to look for help in the draft starting possibly with the 48th pick in the second round.
UPDATE: The Steelers further addressed their running back needs by selecting Michigan State's Le'Veon Bell with the 16th pick in the second round.
Follow Marc Sessler on Twitter @MarcSesslerNFL.