RB Najee Harris knew mid-season he was ‘done with the Steelers’

The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted Najee Harris in the first round of the 2021 NFL from the Alabama Crimson Tide.

RB Najee Harris knew mid-season he was ‘done with the Steelers’

Najee Harris (Image via The Los Angeles Times)

After four seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers, running back Najee Harris will embark on a new chapter with the Los Angeles Chargers. The 27-year-old signed a one-year deal earlier this week and is reuniting with head coach Jim Harbaugh, who had previously recruited him in high school.

Najee Harris was a key player for the Steelers, rushing for over 1,000 yards in each of his four seasons. Despite his contributions, he sensed that his time in Pittsburgh was nearing its end midway through last season. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin was upfront with Harris about the team’s future plans, allowing him to prepare for a possible transition.

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Although Harris did not anticipate leaving the Steelers, he understands the business side of the NFL. His decision to join the Chargers was influenced by Harbaugh’s presence and the team’s potential. The Chargers have not had a 1,000-yard rusher since 2017, and Harris hopes to change that.

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I didn’t plan on doing it. It wasn’t something that was in the plan or anything, but it is a business.

Najee Harris told according to Kris Rhim

Harris played a pivotal role in the Steelers’ offense, offering consistency in the rushing game. His physical running style and ability to carry a heavy workload made him a reliable asset. However, as Pittsburgh looked to reshape its roster, the separation became inevitable.

Despite moving on, Harris holds respect for the Steelers organization. He also acknowledged the honesty he received throughout the process. He admitted that the experience in Pittsburgh helped him grow as a player and is excited for what lies ahead.

Najee Harris looking forward to the new deal and experience amidst doubts about him

Najee Harris now looks forward to making an impact with the Los Angeles Chargers. He was impressed with their potential after facing them last season, where he logged 18 carries for 70 yards in a victory. With a fresh opportunity and a familiar face in Harbaugh, he is eager to help elevate his new team.

Najee Harris
Najee Harris (image via Powell River Beak)

When we played against them, I saw the type of team that they’re on the rise to be, and I wanted to be a part of that.

Najee Harris added

As he transitions to Los Angeles, Harris brings experience, determination, and the mindset of a proven leader. Nevertheless, several critics and insiders have not positively opined on the trade, alleging that the Chargers could do a lot better than Najee Harris.

Seth Walder of ESPN noted some data points that could lead to the assumption that the Harris trade is a bad grade for the Chargers. In his article, Walder pointed out that over the past decade, 32 running backs have logged at least 1,000 carries, and Harris ranks 30th among them with an average of 3.9 yards per carry.

According to NFL Next Gen Stats, he recorded negative rushing yards over expectation in three of his four seasons. While he posted impressive receiving numbers in 2021 with 74 receptions, he hasn’t matched that production since, as Jaylen Warren has taken on a larger share of the passing game. All said and done, Harris, now has a fresh team where he could find his lost rhythm.

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