Free-agent running back Maurice Jones-Drew visited the Steelers on Wednesday. According to Albert Breer of NFL Media, Jones-Drew will be back on Thursday.
Drafted in 2006, Jone-Drew has spent his entire season with the Jaguars. After signing Toby Gerhart to a three-year, $10.5 million contract, the Jaguars presumably aren’t interested in bringing back Jones-Drew.
The Steelers could use help at the position. While 2013 rookie Le’Veon Bell has become the top tailback, Jonathan Dwyer has left via free agency. Felix Jones, who joined the team last year, also is a free agent.
The NFL’s rushing leader in 2011, Jones-Drew has rushed for 8,071 yards and scored 80 rushing touchdowns. While the Steelers are pinched against the cap, a market-value deal could easily be negotiated with a cap number in the range of $1.5 million.
The Jets also reportedly have interest in Jones-Drew. Pittsburgh was his first visit.