[wvuauthor]

There was a great article in the PGH Post-Gazette about Bettis and his broadcasting career. He also gives some great insight about next years team. One interesting thing he said was that Staley should be a good backup to Parker next season. What does everyone think about that? I for one do not think either one is a number one back.

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/06052/658585.stm

[Lefty Noob]

Interesting. Bettis seems to have a good grasp of cap issues for a guy fresh out of the league. Plus, I like where his priorities are -- make sure you take care of the guys in the trenches first. If this is any indication of what he'll be like as a broadcaster, then count me in for Sunday night games.

Parker was the starter this year and will be next year, no doubt about that. He's a quality No. 1 back. Interesting to hear about the situation with Staley, but it doesn't make sense totally to me. Wasn't Duce also behind Haynes on the depth chart?

[wvuauthor]

Well, I guess it is tough to say because Staley was hurt most of the season. But from what the article says, Staley was able to go the last couple of games, meaning that Haynes was the #3 back. It will be interesting to see what the Steelers do. If they are going to pay all that money to a RB why not get a guy who wont be hurt all the time?

I am still not so sure that Parker is a solid #1. He is going to have to do it for more than one season to make me a believer!

[BigBadBuc]

Willie Parker is still able to get better. He hardly played in college. He has a lot more upside because of his inexperience. He's just learning(Can you believe it?). North Carolina really screwed up.

Duce Staley when healthy is a good combo back with Parker.

BBB

[steelers]

I agree that when Staley gets healthy that he will complement Parker very well. But I am still not sure the Steelers will keep Staley around.

Any other opinions on this...what do you guys think??

[BigBadBuc]

Steelers,

From what I hear, they fully intend to plug Duce Staley into the Jerome Bettis role.

BBB

[wvuauthor]

I never thought that would happen, but it is looking more and more likely everyday. What do you think Staley is capable of bringing to the team next year? About the same as Jerome?

[BigBadBuc]

Staley, when healthy is a load himself. He doesn't have the cutback ability of Jerome but he has a quick burst going forward. He's a good back. He will fit right in. They babied his knee injury because they were loaded with backs. Next year Staley will have to carry the load.

BBB

[wvuauthor]

You are right about that, he will definitely have to carry the load. My question is, is his body up to it? Or is he going to get hurt again and leave the Steelers with depth problems in the backfield?

[BigBadBuc]

WVUm

To answer your question.

My best guess is, Idon't know.

I'll bet that we draft a big back 2nd or third round.

BBB

[wvuauthor]

I agree, that question is hard to answer. There is no way to answer if a player will stay healthy, but judging by past seasons I do not know if he will make it.

The Steelers will probably sure up their situation by drafting a big back in the mid to late rounds.