He is out to prove many things, but Najee Harris’ biggest message is to add more respect to running backs.
Some feel that players at the position should not be taken in the first round; however, Harris is ready to show why he’s an exception to the rule.
After a strong career at the University of Alabama, he was selected at No. 24 overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Harris looked impressive throughout rookie minicamp, and the Steelers believe it has a player that can return it to winning Super Bowls. Offensively, the Steelers were at its finest when it had Le’Veon Bell with Ben Roethlisberger.
RELATED: Najee Harris has looked impressive at rookie minicamp for the Steelers
As an alumnus of Michigan State University, Bell was a three-time Pro Bowler (2014, 2016, 2017) and two-time first-team All-Pro (2014, 2017).
He had three 1,000-yard rushing seasons for the Steelers, including a career-high of 1,361 yards in 2014.
Before holding out in 2018, Bell provided versatility as a rusher and receiver from 2013 to 2017. He became a free agent and signed with the New York Jets in 2019. Bell spent 17 games with the Jets, and then he was released on October 13. The talented back would then sign with the Kansas City Chiefs, and played nine games with the team in 2020. Since Bell’s departure, the Steelers have lacked a spark on offense. Harris expects to restore the spark, and Bucky Brooks of NFL Network says ‘he could make the biggest impact of the non-quarterback rookies.’ Harris operated as a running back and receiver for the Crimson Tide.
The @steelers offense hasn’t been the same since Le’Veon Bell left. Najee Harris gives them a hybrid at the position with RB1/WR2 skills. Could make the biggest impact of the non-QB rookies. #NFL https://t.co/XtIdXgPOy6
— Bucky Brooks (@BuckyBrooks) May 17, 2021
He turned in two straight 1,000-yard rushing campaigns in 2019 and 2020 while totaling 70 catches for 729 yards with 11 touchdowns in each of the last two seasons. Harris has the same confidence Bell had, and he is what Pittsburgh needs.
Some of the ESPN experts predict Harris to be the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year.
He is taking things day by day, but it will be interesting to see what happens.
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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.
