Loss of Willie Parker puts Steelers in bind
What to do with the No. 1 pick in next year's draft will be among Bill Parcells' biggest decisions as he settles into his new role in Miami, writes John Clayton.
Willie Parker isn't considered a power back at 5-foot-10 and 209 pounds, but he had been amazingly durable entering Thursday night's game against the Rams. His season-ending injury, a fractured right fibula, will cause major changes in the Steelers' offense if they make the playoffs.
For quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, the loss of the league's leading rusher takes the action out of their play-action passing game. That was noticeable at times Thursday night as Rams defenders ignored fakes to running back Najeh Davenport and rushed straight to Roethlisberger.
Davenport is a big, powerful back, but he lacks breakaway speed. He is good in short-yardage situations and when the Steelers (10-5) are trying to wear down a defense, but defenses aren't going to fear Davenport.
Defenses now will have more flexibility against Pittsburgh. They won't have to put eight players near the line of scrimmage to stop the run. The extra defender could be used in coverage or used to pressure Roethisberger.
To fill the void on the roster, the Steelers will probably reach out to Verron Haynes. Kevan Barlow could be another option because he was with the team in training camp, but Haynes has more experience with the Steelers.
This could make life tough for the Steelers in the playoffs. Even though Roethlisberger is having his best season -- he's going to the Pro Bowl -- he's taking a lot of hits and sacks, which could wear him down. He played with a sore right shoulder last week and before the half against the Rams, his knee was twisted.
Without Parker, Roethlisberger must replace some of Parker's big-play runs with big pass plays. Not being able to expect 100-yard rushing days from the featured back, offensive coordinator Bruce Ariens must be even more creative.
What would help the Steelers is if they have a chance to rest starters in their season finale against the Ravens. They won't be able to do that if the Browns beat the Bengals on Sunday, keeping the AFC North title in play for the final week of the season.
Weeks ago, the Steelers looked like a lock to win the division. That lock was broken with losses to the Jaguars and Patriots and with the injury to Willie Parker.
John Clayton, a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame writers' wing, is a senior writer for ESPN.com.
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