Less than a week after being released by the Kansas City Chiefs, running back La’Mical Perine has found a new NFL home with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers announced the one-year deal on Monday afternoon.
Perine entered the NFL with the New York Jets, where he played his first two seasons (2020-21). During his rookie season, he logged 64 carries for 232 rushing yards and scored two touchdowns. However, he fell out of favor and was released before the start of his third year. In 2022, Perine spent time on the practice squads of the Philadelphia Eagles and Miami Dolphins before signing with the Chiefs for the 2023 season.
Last year with the Chiefs, Perine was activated for three games, recording 22 carries for 77 rushing yards. Despite being the third most experienced running back on the roster, behind Isiah Pacheco and Clyde Edwards-Helaire, his release was surprising. The Chiefs, known for emphasizing backfield depth, now face a thinner running back competition. They will rely on Keaontay Ingram, Deneric Prince, Hassan Hall, Emani Bailey, and Carson Steele to vie for roster spots in the preseason, with the possibility of acquiring a veteran if needed.
In Pittsburgh, Perine will compete for a spot behind Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren, and Cordarrelle Patterson, alongside Jonathan Ward and Aaron Shampklin. Notably, Perine has strong NFL ties, with his cousin Samaje Perine also a running back in the league, and another cousin, Myles Jack, a linebacker who played for the Steelers last season.
As the Steelers gear up for the upcoming season, Perine’s addition provides valuable depth and competition in their backfield, while he seeks to reignite his NFL career.