The Pittsburgh Steelers face a critical decision regarding running back Najee Harris’s future with the team. With Harris entering the final year of his rookie contract, analysts debate whether the Steelers should re-sign him or draft a replacement.
Harris’s Production and Contract Situation
Najee Harris, a first-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, has consistently surpassed 1,000 rushing yards in each of his three seasons. However, his career average of 3.9 yards per carry raises concerns about his efficiency. Harris is entering the final year of his rookie contract, making his future with the Steelers uncertain. The team must decide whether his production warrants a significant financial investment.
The Argument for Moving On
Pro Football Focus analyst Sam Monson suggests the Steelers should allow Harris to depart via free agency and draft a replacement in a later round. Monson argues that unless a running back is truly exceptional, they are replaceable and shouldn’t command a high salary. He contends that Harris’s performance is heavily reliant on the offensive line’s performance, indicating he’s not worth a substantial long-term contract.
The Evolving Value of Running Backs
The NFL’s perception of running back value has shifted in recent years. Teams are less inclined to invest heavily in the position, recognizing that productive running backs can be found in later rounds of the draft. This trend further supports Monson’s argument that the Steelers could find a comparable replacement for Harris at a lower cost. The modern NFL emphasizes cost-effective roster construction, and the running back position is often viewed as expendable.
Assessing Harris’s Performance
While Harris has been a reliable workhorse for the Steelers, his efficiency metrics raise concerns. His 3.9 yards per carry average falls below the league average for starting running backs. Critics argue that his production is a product of volume rather than exceptional talent. They point to Jaylen Warren, the Steelers’ backup running back, as a potentially more explosive option. Warren’s higher yards-per-carry average suggests he could be a more efficient runner.
The Steelers’ Options
The Steelers have several options regarding Harris’s future. They could attempt to re-sign him to a team-friendly deal, allowing them to retain a known quantity. Alternatively, they could let him walk in free agency and draft a replacement, potentially finding a younger, more cost-effective option. A third option would be to utilize a combination of Warren and a rookie running back, maximizing efficiency and minimizing financial commitment to the position. The emergence of Jaylen Warren provides the Steelers with internal leverage in negotiations with Harris.
Conclusion
The Steelers’ decision regarding Najee Harris will significantly impact their future. Balancing Harris’s past production with his contract demands and the evolving NFL landscape will be crucial. The team must weigh the cost of retaining Harris against the potential of finding a more efficient and cost-effective replacement. The decision will ultimately depend on the Steelers’ overall roster strategy and their assessment of Harris’s long-term value.
