NFL analyst has a prediction for Steelers RB Najee Harris that even he may not believe
For all the criticism that Pittsburgh Steelers RB Najee Harris has taken throughout his career, his production is undeniable. The only back in franchise history, and one of the few in the history of the league to start their career with three straight 1,000-yard seasons on the ground, Harris is reliable if nothing else. But […]
For all the criticism that Pittsburgh Steelers RB Najee Harris has taken throughout his career, his production is undeniable.
The only back in franchise history, and one of the few in the history of the league to start their career with three straight 1,000-yard seasons on the ground, Harris is reliable if nothing else.
But paired with a new offensive coordinator and a rebuilt offensive line, some around the league are extremely bullish on Harris' 2024 outlook.
One of them is Derrik Klassen of The Athletic Football Show, who predicted Najee to not only rush for the most yards in the league but by a wide margin:
Harris to lead the league with 200 yards to spare?
"I think Najee Harris leads the league in rushing by 200 yards, Klassen said when forecasting the Steelers' 2024 outlook. "Arthur Smith wants the big man to run the ball. Look at all of the guys that he's given a ton of carries to, whether it was Tyler Allgeier or Derrick Henry. He's going to give the big man the ball. If this young offensive line can at least be an above-average unit and if Darnell Washington can be a useful piece, they are going to give the ball to Najee Harris, he's going to get enough volume. I think Najee Harris is way better than people think."
Here's the thing, I value Harris much more than many who cover the league do, and probably more than the Steelers do when analyzing their decision to decline his fifth-year option.
Klassen is citing the opportunities and scheme as reasons for his prediction, and that is credible referencing. The problem is, Pittsburgh values Jaylen Warren a lot. If this was a one-back stable, I would be fully on board with Klassen.
And sure, Harris had over 100 more carries than Warren last season, but Warren averaged a whole 1.2 yards more per carry, which is miles in the NFL. He's also a suitable pass catcher and can be used in pass protection.
So for Harris to lead the league, he would need to up his carries to mirror the man he most resembles his game after, Derrick Henry. At his peak and under the tutelage of Arthur Smith, it was nothing for Henry to eclipse 300, or even 350 carries.
I highly doubt Harris expects his total allotment to reach that ceiling.
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