Has Pittsburgh Steelers Mismanaged Najee Harris' Career Again?

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The Pittsburgh Steelers are once again facing scrutiny over their handling of running back Najee Harris, especially as he approaches free agency. After being selected with the 24th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Harris was expected to be a foundational piece of the Steelers' offense.

While he has had solid production, including a Pro Bowl selection in his rookie season, his overall performance has raised questions about whether he has met the lofty expectations placed upon him.

Through his first few seasons, Harris has racked up over 4,300 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns. However, his rushing average of 3.9 yards per carry is below the standard expected from a first-round pick. While Harris has been reliable as both a rusher and a pass catcher, his inability to break out for long gains has often limited his effectiveness. Additionally, much of his production has come through heavy volume rather than explosive plays, with his big-play potential often lacking compared to other top running backs.

The Steelers’ offensive line struggles in recent years have also played a role in Harris’ inconsistent production. While the line’s shortcomings are not entirely Harris’ fault, his ability to maximize opportunities behind it has often been called into question. Despite this, Harris' lack of consistent explosive plays has made it hard for the Steelers to view him as a truly game-changing back.

With Harris approaching free agency, the timing is critical. The running back market has shifted, and there’s growing concern over the value of high-paying contracts for running backs, especially as the NFL continues to prioritize the passing game. However, teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and Baltimore Ravens have found success with big-money signings, which could lead to a bidding war for Harris.

The Steelers now face a pivotal decision: should they offer Harris a lucrative contract extension, or allow him to test the free-agent waters? The answer to this question will have a major impact on the team’s future and its approach to building a championship contender.

Cover Photo Credit: @najee_harris/Instagram

Feature Photo Credit: @najee_harris/Instagram