He came to the University of Alabama to be a national championship running back and a Heisman Trophy winner.
Should the Coronavirus not interfere, Najee Harris has his sights on both things this season.
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During a Zoom call on last week, the senior running back said he has not thought about opting out and he does not regret turning down the National Football League for one more year in crimson and white. After his first career 1,000-yard rushing campaign (1,224) in 2019, he has been training nonstop with former Auburn standout Brad Lester on improving his speed.
The former five-star wants to show everyone he is the total package at running back, and Lester released a motivating video through YouTube on Harris’ Heisman campaign offseason. In the video, the California native is performing speed, change of direction, power and agility drills.
Harris is lifting weights, flipping tires and doing every exercise imaginable to create an edge.
He returns with so many goals ahead of him — including a conference title, national championship, individual accolades and a desire to be a first-round NFL Draft pick.
The 6-foot-2, 230-pounder also wants to advance on the school’s all-time list for career rushing leaders.
A second 1,000-yard season would have him at least fourth all-time, behind Bobby Humphrey, Shaun Alexander and Derrick Henry (career leader).
Currently, Harris had 2,377 yards rushing through three years with the Tide.
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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.
