Ben Tate Rumors: Latest Buzz and Speculation Surrounding Free Agent RB

The 2014 season has been a chaotic one for running back Ben Tate, but it ended very well with a foray into the playoffs. The Pittsburgh Steelers announced they have signed Tate.

ESPN's Adam Schefter previously reported the team would sign the 26-year-old back if their Tuesday visit is successful:

Mike Tomlin later spoke about Tate, via Aaron Wilson of the Baltimore Sun:

Tate started 2014 with the Cleveland Browns after signing a two-year deal in the offseason, but that marriage was short-lived as the Browns decided to waive him after just 10 games.

The former Auburn star was quickly scooped up by the Minnesota Vikings, however, Tate was once again let go just over a month later, per the Vikes' official Twitter account:

Teams don't often make high-profile signings right before the playoffs, but the Steelers currently find themselves in a running back quandary. Since releasing LeGarrette Blount in November for insubordination, Le'Veon Bell has gotten almost every carry out of the backfield.

Bell was forced to leave Pittsburgh's Week 17 game against the Cincinnati Bengals, and although there are no tears in his knee, it is unknown if he will be able to play in the Steelers' Wild Card game against the Baltimore Ravens Saturday, according to Fox Sports NFL:

That leaves unproven options like Josh Harris and Dri Archer at Pittsburgh's disposal, so signing Tate certainly makes sense.

Tate hasn't had a great year by any means as he is averaging just over three yards per carry, but he was an excellent No. 2 back for the Houston Texans in three previous seasons.

Regardless of whether Bell is able to play this weekend, signing Tate seems like a no-brainer move for the Steelers as getting a player of his experience and caliber could provide a major boost.

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