On Monday, the Pittsburgh Steelers brought in running back and return specialist Raheem Blackshear for a workout and ended up signing him to their practice squad. This is in addition to safety Jack Henderson who the Steelers announced they signed to the practice squad as well. The team didn’t immediately announce any corresponding releases to balance things out on the practice squad.
Blackshear only has 203 rushing yards in three seasons but this isn’t why the Steelers brought him in. Last season, with the Carolina Panthers, Blackshear was an excellent kick returner, averaging 25.6 yards per return on 31 attempts. Blackshear also had 17 punt returns for 145 yards.
If the Steelers elevate Blackshear, it could mean Steelers rookie running back Kaleb Johnson won’t be returning to the kickoff return team. The Steelers had elevated veteran Trey Semon in two straight weeks and a third elevation would be his final option before he would have to be signed to the 53-man roster.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers add dynamic return specialist Raheem Blackshear to practice squad