Najee Harris defends multiple Steelers in interview
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris wants the fans and media to stop blaming the wrong people for the offensive woes surrounding the team. In a recent interview, the Steelers' second-year running back whose average yards per carry is down from his 2021 numbers shared some thoughts on how the team is perceived on social […]
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris wants the fans and media to stop blaming the wrong people for the offensive woes surrounding the team.
In a recent interview, the Steelers' second-year running back whose average yards per carry is down from his 2021 numbers shared some thoughts on how the team is perceived on social media.
Harris is not wrong, either. The offensive line has actually done a better job than expected before the season. Going into Week 1, the unit was considered to be the biggest question mark on this team.
But Next Gen Stats' metrics back up Harris' claim regarding the state of the Steelers' rushing game. Harris ranks as the second worst running back in rush yards over expected per attempt.
That doesn't mean he's not doing anything to contribute though, as Pittsburgh games still feature Harris breaking tackles. His 30 broken tackles are the second-most in the NFL, per Pro Football Reference.
Harris also defended offensive coordinator Matt Canada, who's been under constant fire while the Steelers' offense struggles to get going.
Whether or not there's merit to Harris' comments – which is arguable, considering you can't deny the players' comments against Canada have been abundant – the Steelers' running back is proving he can step up as a leader for this team in his second year.
His playful personality doesn't stop him from holding himself accountable and stepping up for his teammates and coaches. On a Steelers team in which there's not a well-established quarterback, that can be invaluable going forward.
The Steelers offense will attempt to bounce back on Sunday versus a New York Jets defense that ranks 32nd in the NFL in DVOA. Heading into gameday, they're 3.5-point favorites as the home team.
Featured image via Jeff Lange / USA TODAY NETWORK
