Lew Nichols

Career StatsD-

Year	Team	GP	Yards	TD	YPC
Career		1	—	—	—
2025		1	—	—	—
2024		3	30	1	2.0

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

This Lew Nichols deal earns an A CVI and represents exactly the kind of low-risk depth investment that smart front offices execute without fanfare. At just $0.9M per year over four years, the Steelers are paying replacement-level money for a depth piece running back — a textbook example of matching salary to role and production tier. The minimal $0.1M guaranteed money means Pittsburgh can cut bait at virtually any point without meaningful dead cap consequences, while the four-year structure gives them extended control if Nichols develops beyond his current depth status. For a running back position where injury attrition is inevitable and special teams contributions matter, securing four years of cost-controlled depth at this price point is shrewd roster management. The Steelers essentially bought a lottery ticket with house money — if Nichols emerges as a contributor, they've locked up a valuable asset at below-market rates, and if he doesn't, they can move on without any financial pain.

Performance Analysis

Lew Nichols earns a D- grade as a young running back trying to earn a spot on the Steelers' roster. Pittsburgh's backfield has established options, and Nichols is competing for what amounts to the last running back spot. His college production at Central Michigan was impressive, but the level of competition and speed in the NFL is a significant step up. The Steelers need depth at running back, and Nichols is one of several options being evaluated. His path to meaningful contributions runs through special teams and preseason performance.