This is the second in a series that takes a post-training camp look at every position. Next up is running back.

Players on the roster: Le'Veon Bell, LeGarrette Blount, Dri Archer, Will Johnson (fullback), Tauren Poole, Jordan Hall, Miguel Maysonet, Josh Harris and Stephen Houston.

Projected starter: Bell. The second-year man is poised for a 1,000-yard season even though he will lose carries to Blount. The Steelers will also utilize the multi-talented Bell as a receiver.

Projected number on 53-man roster: Five, including Johnson. The Steelers could get by with four here -- they could stash a young back or two on the practice squad -- so I’m not married to this number. Poole has the early edge for the job of No. 4 running back if the Steelers keep four backs. Whoever earns that spot will have to show the coaches he can contribute on special teams.

Rookie watch: Archer should provide a jolt to the offense if the Steelers find ways to get the third-round draft pick the ball in space. The 5-foot-8, 173-pounder is electric in the open field, and Archer, who has blinding speed and plenty of wiggle, could be a matchup nightmare if the Steelers use him correctly. Archer is so versatile that he splits his time during meetings between the running backs and the wide receivers. He also will be the Steelers’ primary kickoff returner and has a chance to be their No. 1 punt returner as well.

What we learned in camp: The Steelers reaffirmed the commitment they have made to running the ball this season at St. Vincent College as they worked extensively on the ground game in 11-on-11 drills. The Steelers limited Bell’s practice time but he looked terrific in the limited playing time he received in the preseason opener. He and Blount, who signed with the Steelers in March, should make for a formidable tandem with Archer adding breakaway speed to the position. Inside linebacker is the only position that has received more of an upgrade than running back since last season.

He said it: “I think he’s in great shape. The kid’s got a great upside. I think he’s got a lot of promise in front of him.” – Steelers running backs coach James Saxon on Bell.