Steelers Now
A former running back of the Pittsburgh Steelers has earned himself another pro opportunity.
Former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Anthony McFarland Jr. has found a new professional home, being drafted by the Birmingham Stallions in the 2026 UFL Draft.
McFarland, 27, had a very brief second stint in the NFL in 2024, signing with the Miami Dolphins on Aug. 19. He was waived on Aug. 27 and re-signed to the practice squad, but was released a day later.
The Steelers’ fourth-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, McFarland spent four seasons with the club, playing in 17 games and rushing 42 times for 146 yards. He also caught 11 passes for 87 yards.
McFarland impressed during the pre-draft process, running a 4.44-second 40-yard dash at the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, which ranked fourth among running backs. However, he dealt with multiple knee injuries that limited him during his time in Pittsburgh.
McFarland became a free agent in the 2024 offseason when his rookie contract with the Steelers expired and he first signed with the San Antonio Brahmas of the UFL. McFarland had a strong season in his most extensive game action since his rookie season.
McFarland played in seven total games for the Brahmas, five in the regular season and two in the postseason. In the regular season, he rushed 47 times for 192 yards and one touchdown and caught 15 passes for 206 yards and three scores. In two playoff games, he had another 147 rushing yards and 42 receiving yards.
The Brahmas were shut out, 25-0, by the Birmingham Stallions in the UFL title game on June 16.
The 2026 UFL season kicks off in the spring. The league will play in three new cities this year — Louisville, Columbus, Ohio and Orlando.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Lightning Fast Ex-Steelers Running Back Finds New Pro Home
