Pittsburgh Steelers star running back, Najee Harris continues to get unfair critiques from pundits around the media. Harris has been heavily criticized, largely due to no fault of his own. When a running back is drafted in the first round, expectations skyrocket, and anything short of elite production is often viewed as a disappointment.
Yet, Harris has delivered, rushing for over 1,000 yards in each of his first three seasons and remaining a key piece of the Steelers' offense in 2024. Despite this, he can't seem to avoid harsh judgment.
Rodney Harrison stirred up controversy on Friday with his bold assessment of Harris during a conversation with Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk. Harrison claimed that Jaylen Warren, Harris' backup, is significantly better than the former first-round pick. While Warren has showcased impressive speed and grit, many fans and analysts view Harrison's comments as an unnecessary slight against a proven starter who has carried the Steelers' rushing attack in recent years.
"I think Jaylen Warren should be the starting running back," Harrison said. "Najee Harris, when he runs, he looks like his legs are heavy. He looks like he's running in sand at times. Every now and then, he'll give you that energy and he runs like Ricky Watters, but for the most part, I'm starting Warren as my running back."
Harris has consistently faced an uphill battle against criticism since entering the league, but his production speaks for itself. Whether it's grinding out tough yards in a run-heavy scheme or contributing as a pass-catcher, he has shown versatility and durability.
While Warren’s rise adds valuable depth, the notion that Harris is somehow falling short of expectations feels misplaced. Most Steelers fans continue to rally behind their star, recognizing his importance to the team’s offensive identity. It's not been easy for Harris as he plays so hard but often must feel like his value hasn't been appreciated.
The Steelers' decision to decline Harris' fifth-year option in the 2024 offseason was far from reassuring for the former first-round pick. By opting not to pick up the option, the organization bypassed a chance to reward Harris for his efforts, which would have guaranteed him $6.79 million for the 2025 season. Instead, Harris is set to become a free agent at the end of 2024, leaving his future with the team uncertain.
Heading into the season, Harris was expected to deliver a breakout campaign, driven by motivation to prove the organization wrong and boosted by an improved offensive line and the arrival of Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith. While Harris has faced challenges, including running behind a banged-up offensive line, he has still delivered a solid performance.
With 157 carries for 645 yards and an average of 4.1 yards per carry, along with three touchdowns, Harris has remained a reliable workhorse. Though not the breakout year many anticipated, his value to the team remains evident. As the AFC North play and the brutal part of the schedule has now arrived, Steeler Nation will get a chance to see just how reliable Harris is.
Steelers' Najee Harris Is Needed To Make The Run Game Work
Harris’ resilience has been remarkable, playing every game despite the circumstances. Meanwhile, Warren has provided valuable contributions but has struggled with injuries and costly mistakes, such as his Week 10 fumble at the goal line against the Washington Commanders that nearly cost Pittsburgh the game.
While the duo complements each other well, the suggestion that Warren should replace Harris as the starter overlooks the balance they bring to the offense. Without Harris, the Steelers' run game would likely falter. As Harris approaches free agency, the Steelers face a critical decision about his future, and many fans hope the team will secure him in black and gold for years to come.