The Steelers took Harris 24th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft after four productive seasons with the Alabama Crimson Tide. The Steelers hoped his powerful, 6'1", 241 lbs frame and ability as a pass catcher would translate to the NFL, but he has shown a distinct lack of explosiveness through four seasons as a pro. His career marks of 3.9 yards per rushing attempt and 4.9 yards per target have left a lot to be desired.Don't close the door on a Najee Harris reunion just yet. https://t.co/VtguTnOuUr
— Gerry Dulac (@gerrydulac) February 7, 2025
Still, Harris has displayed some qualities in the NFL. He has logged 68 consecutive starts since entering the league while logging at least 284 touches every year. He has proven he can endure the wear and tear of a gruelling NFL schedule to a rare degree for a running back. He's also still relatively young: He won't turn 27 until March.
The Steelers declined to exercise Harris's fifth-year option last offseason, meaning he's set to his free agency in the coming months. So, if they do intend to sign him, it's unlikely they're willing to break the bank with a multi-year deal or even the franchise tag.
Given his status in the league, it's unlikely Harris would flirt with even the second-tier running back deals offered to the likes of Derrick Henry (two years, $16 million), D'Andre Swift (three years, $24 million), and Aaron Jones ($7 million) last offseason.
Overall, Harris has been an underwhelming and plodding back to this point in his NFL career, and rival teams shouldn't be too eager to gamble on his potential. If the Steelers appreciate his reliability and intangibles, they should be able to land him at a fair rate. Until the Steelers improve their offensive line or passing attack, Harris probably won't expand his role in a meaningful way.
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