Many assume that rookie Le’Veon Bell will become the new starting tailback in Pittsburgh. The many doesn’t include running back Jonathan Dwyer.
Dwyer told 93.7 The Fan in Pittsburgh that he aims to win the job.
“I want to prove to people that I can be one of the best,” Dwyer said.
He first has to emerge as the best in Pittsburgh, and the Steelers wouldn’t have used a second-round pick on Bell if they didn’t believe he could win the job.
Still, Dwyer has stepped it up. He also said Monday that he has lost 25-to-30 pounds by watching his diet and working hard.
“I worked out probably like 2-3 times a day, sometimes on Saturdays and Sundays, too,” Dwyer said. “Running hills and [doing] all types of stuff. Not just to lose weight, but to be in condition.”
He said he feels like he has more energy, and that he’s more explosive and quicker in camp. And some of his teammates did a double take when they saw the new and improved Jonathan Dwyer.
“I just want to be the best,” Dwyer said. “Last year, I got a taste of how to play. . . . I don’t want to be just average, I want to be among the elite.”
Dwyer appeared in 13 games last season, with six starts. He rushed for 623 yards on 156 carries. If he gets his wish, those numbers will be a lot higher in 2013, and beyond.