Pittsburgh Steelers running back, Najee Harris has had a steady 2024 season so far. Through seven games, he has rushed 117 times for 478 yards, averaging 4.1 yards per carry, and scored 2 rushing touchdowns. He's also contributed in the passing game with 14 receptions for 135 yards. Although his numbers aren't at the level of his standout rookie season thus far, he's been reliable, particularly in recent games.
In his latest performance, Harris rushed for 102 yards and a touchdown in a 37-15 win against the New York Jets in Week 7, marking his second consecutive 100-yard rushing game. He dominated against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 6 with 106 yards rushing and a touchdown. Newly acquired linebacker Patrick Queen recently acknowledged Harris' standout performances, as he spoke with the media in the locker room on Wednesday.
“Glad I’m on the same team as him," Queen said. “He’s doing his thing. … Just a physical guy all around. A mean guy. A nasty guy. Whenever he runs like that, nobody wants to tackle that. Nobody wants to deal with that for four quarters.”
Harris has been a high-impact player for the team from the day he arrived in 2021. His football career began to gain significant attention during his college years at the University of Alabama, where he had a phenomenal career. Harris played four seasons at Alabama under Head Coach Nick Saban, contributing to the Crimson Tide's success, including winning two National Championships (2017, 2020). He became the school's all-time leading rusher with 3,843 yards and 46 rushing touchdowns. His senior year in 2020 was particularly impressive, as he rushed for 1,466 yards and 26 touchdowns, and added 43 receptions for 425 yards and 4 receiving touchdowns. He was a key part of Alabama's undefeated National Championship run in 2020.
Harris was drafted by the Steelers in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, selected 24th overall. He quickly made an impact as a workhorse back for the Steelers. He finished his rookie season with 1,200 rushing yards, 7 rushing touchdowns, and 467 receiving yards, setting a rookie franchise record for the Steelers in total scrimmage yards (1,667). He earned a Pro Bowl selection in his first season due to his strong all-around performance. He became known for his ability to handle a heavy workload, both as a rusher and a pass-catcher, playing all 17 games.
The production of Harris only slightly slowed in his second season with Pittsburgh. Despite early-season struggles with a Lisfranc injury in his foot, Harris finished the season strong. He rushed for 1,034 yards and 7 touchdowns, with 229 receiving yards and 3 receiving touchdowns. His season marked his second consecutive year with over 1,000 rushing yards. As a leader on a young Steelers team, Harris played a key role in keeping the offense steady, despite inconsistent quarterback play from Kenny Pickett.
Steelers Will Continue To Need More From Harris In 2024
Harris entered the 2023 season with expectations of maintaining his role as the Steelers' feature back. While still contributing solidly, his usage in the offense has been more balanced with other running backs like Jaylen Warren. Harris continued to be an essential piece of the Steelers' running game and an important part of their offense. In his third season, Harris once again broke the 1-000 yard mark, and he looks to do that yet again in 2024.
Harris is on track to have a career season, and with the way he has played the last two weeks, it does not seem there is any doubt about his ability. As of now, he shows no sign of slowing down. The Steelers will need him to again be at his best this coming Monday night as the Black and Gold will take on the New York Giants on prime time TV.
