Nichols III Is The Steelers Most Intriguing Preseason Standout

Photo Credit: Emilee Fails /Pittsburgh Steelers

As the Steelers’ front office enters the final stretch of preseason evaluations, one name has quietly emerged as perhaps the most intriguing player on the roster: running back Lew Nichols III.

Despite receiving limited opportunities in Pittsburgh’s first two preseason games, the former seventh-round pick has made the most of his chances—delivering explosive plays and showcasing a skill set that has captured the attention of both analysts and fans.

Nichols’ preseason performances have been brief but electric. In Week 2 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he recorded 42 rushing yards on just three carries, including a dazzling 37-yard run that highlighted his elite contact balance and field vision. Though he was tripped up short of the end zone, the play served as a reminder of his game-breaking potential.

In Week 1, Nichols added 31 yards on six attempts, demonstrating consistency and decisiveness behind a backup offensive line. While the sample size remains small, the impact has been undeniable.

With established names like Jaylen Warren, Kaleb Johnson, and Kenneth Gainwell ahead of him on the depth chart, the path to playing time seemed narrow. Yet Nichols has drawn comparisons to Warren’s own rise in 2022, when he went from undrafted free agent to key contributor.

Stylistically, Nichols fits the Steelers’ identity perfectly. His contact balance allows him to shed defenders with ease, and his vision enables him to find daylight even in congested situations. He also offers special teams versatility—an essential trait for fringe roster players.

Nichols still faces an uphill battle to crack the 53-man roster. But if he continues to impress in the final preseason game and contributes on special teams, he could force the Steelers’ hand. Even if he begins the season on the practice squad, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him earn a call-up on another team sooner rather than later.