NFL Rumors: Pittsburgh Steelers To Promote Karlos Williams to Replace Injured DeAngelo Williams

Nov 13, 2016 10:15 AM EST

It was recently confirmed that running back DeAngelo Williams of the Pittsburgh Steelers underwent surgery for his knee. Due to the backup RB's absence, the team could promote Karlos Williams from the practice squad to add depth to the lineup.

DeAngelo had a very good start in the season after he was moved to the starting position due to LeVeon Bell's suspension. At Week 2, he led the league in rushing yards.

Now that Bell is back, DeAngelo hasn't seen much playing time with the Steelers. Bell's return has been timely for the Steelers especially since DeAngelo hasn't been able to join the rest of the team since Week 7 after suffering through a knee injury.

Earlier this week, it was confirmed that he underwent surgery to repair his knee which means he will most likely be out for at least three weeks. This leaves the Steelers with a serious problem regarding the lack of depth at their running back bench.

As a possible solution, the Pittsburgh organization could turn to its practice squad to look for a temporary replacement for De'Angelo. Currently, they have running backs Karlos and Daryl Richardson in their practice squad.

Between these two, Karlos is regarded as the most skilled one even though Richardson is more experienced.

Karlos officially joined the league in 2015 after he was picked by the Buffalo Bills in the fifth round of the NFL Draft. During his rookie year with the team, he first carry was a 26-yard run for a touchdown.

However, in August of this year, he was officially released by the Bills after he was suspended by the NFL for violating the league's substance abuse policy and for reportedly attending training camp while out of shape.

Last month, he was picked up by the Steelers and was signed to the practice squad.

Adding Karlos to the active roster will certainly give the Steelers more options in terms of their running backs. Of course, Bell will still be the starter but it wouldn't hurt having a guy like Karlos backing him up. This could also serve as a way to groom Karlos as the team's next starter by rotating him with Bell.