He did not make a spectacle of his decision on social media; however, Najee Harris has never been the type to draw attention to himself.
The former five-star from California refused to make a big deal out of his recruitment in 2017, so it’s only fitting that he did the same thing again.
Harris made the choice to return to the University of Alabama for his senior year, and the coaching staff is very excited.
The 6-foot-2, 230-pound running back entertained fans last season as he collected his first career 1,000-yard campaign (1,224) and had 13 touchdowns last year. Harris posted five 100-yard rushing performances and caught 27 passes for 304 receiving yards with seven scores.
While it took him a few games to get rolling, he turned up his level of play versus Louisiana State University – recording a career-high 146 yards rushing with two touchdowns (one receiving).
He will be the focal point offensively, as Harris eyes the opportunity to improve his NFL Draft stock and win a Heisman Memorial Trophy.
On Wednesday, Nick Saban was asked by local reporters about Harris’ decision at practice for the Reese’s Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala.
“It’s all based on how players get ranked and rated from NFL teams,” Saban said.
“I give players the information, and where he was slotted relative to all the other players coming out this year are available, it’s a heavy year for running backs. He made a decision that he wanted to come back and we’re happy to have him back.”
RELATED: PODCAST: Najee Harris back for his senior year at Alabama
Harris won’t be the lone draft prospects to return to school at his position, Travis Etienne of Clemson and Chuba Hubbard of Oklahoma State both are back at their respective programs.
Next season should be a fun one for running backs, but Harris expects to deliver the Tide a College Football Playoff National Championship after missing out on the CFP in 2019.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
