NFL Draft 2013: Eddie Lacy injury scared Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers took running back Eddie Lacy off their board due to his toe injury, and instead drafted Le'Veon Bell.

By James Brady@jamesbradyisme Apr 28, 2013, 3:44pm EDT

The Pittsburgh Steelers needed help at running back entering the 2013 NFL Draft, and they found it in former Michigan State back Le'Veon Bell. In doing so, they passed on former Alabama RB Eddie Lacy, who was considered the most talented running back in the class.

Ed Bouchette of the Post-Gazette noted on Sunday that the Steelers were scared off by Lacy's toe injury. Many were wary of Lacy due to hamstring issues, but the Steelers reportedly were scared off by the fact that Lacy's big toe had been fused, which wasn't previously reported.

A few teams passed on Lacy, including the Cincinnati Bengals, who took Giovani Bernard at No. 5 in the second round, the Denver Broncos, who took Montee Ball at pick No. 26 in the second round and the Steelers, who got Bell at No. 16 in the second round.

Lacy eventually went to the Green Bay Packers at No. 29 in the second round. It seems as though even the Packers were a little worried about Lacy's injury, though, as the team also drafted Johnathan Franklin out of UCLA in the fourth round.

It will be interesting to see if Lacy is good to go for the regular season, and how his production compares to Bell's during their careers.