Last week, the Steelers released running back Dri Archer to create a roster spot for receiver Jacoby Jones. Unclaimed on waivers, Archer became a free agent.
To date, Archer hasn’t signed with another team. However, he has had multiple opportunities to join NFL practice squads.
Per a league source, Archer has passed on 10 offers to join practice squads, including an offer from the Steelers. Archer, a third-round pick in 2014, instead plans to wait and see whether any opportunities arise to join a 53-man roster.
Of course, he could do both, signing on a practice squad and then joining any active roster. For now, he hopes to see whether any of the tailback-needy teams decide to give him a chance to show off his 4.26 speed.
The team with the most immediate need is the Patriots, who have lost versatile running back Dion Lewis for the season with a torn ACL.