Pittsburgh Steelers area scout Jim Ward attended Toledo Pro Day and met with running back Deamonte “Chip” Trayanum. Insider Tony Pauline reported that Trayanum also met with the Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles, with an official-30 visit scheduled with the Seattle Seahawks. Trayanum impressed scouts with his pro day testing numbers.
The Pittsburgh Steelers continue to scout running back talent ahead of the NFL draft, with area scout Jim Ward meeting Deamonte “Chip” Trayanum of Toledo at the school's pro day. Tony Pauline reported the interaction, noting Trayanum's meetings with the Steelers, Detroit Lions, and Philadelphia Eagles before and after the event. Trayanum has an official-30 visit lined up with the Seattle Seahawks. At 5-foot-10.5 and 224 pounds, as measured at the Shrine Bowl, Trayanum posted strong numbers despite missing the NFL combine. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.52 to 4.56 seconds, the short shuttle in 4.18 seconds, a 37-inch vertical jump, and 27 bench press reps. The Steelers have bolstered their backfield this offseason by adding Rico Dowdle, expected to pair with Jaylen Warren, and Travis Homer, primarily for special teams. Trayanum's 2025 season at Toledo featured 1,015 rushing yards at 5.6 yards per carry and 12 touchdowns, plus 21 receptions for 212 yards and two scores—showcasing improved receiving skills. Over six college seasons across four schools, he averaged 5.3 yards on 428 carries. Trayanum addressed his development in an interview at the East-West Shrine Bowl with Dr. Melanie Friedlander: “I didn’t come in as a strong receiver out the backfield my first year in the college. But I knew that was an aspect I definitely needed to hit if I wanted to strive and be successful in the league.” Ward's attendance highlights interest, though the extent of discussions remains unclear. Toledo also featured safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren and cornerbacks Andre Fuller and Avery Smith.
