Najee Harris Appreciation Thread

The Steelers usually let their players explore the FA market unless your a superstar
QB/ WR or TJwatt. They will let Najee and his agent see where the RB market is and go from there.

 

I love Harris. It’s not an issue with him. I wanted them to exercise the fifth year or extend him. It’s that the organization very clearly feels Warren is a better long-term solution AND/OR better investment. I get it, completely. But, I’m not arguing that Harris isn’t a really good back. Y’all just want to argue for no damn reason lol

 

This season is showing us the Steelers screwed up. Warren is showing he isn’t as durable as Harris. Harris is showing he can be a beast when given a chance, something he had proven in the past. Look what happens when the opposition has to respect the pass.

 

To be fair, Harris’ overall numbers are OK in 2024 and he hadn’t shown us much of anything until last game. But, I’m pretty confident saying he’ll end up as a top-5 back if he keeps up his recent pace. However, the Steelers are pretty clearly thinking backs are easy to replace in terms of production and Warren has immense talent, so it’s the best investment.

 

Warren still hasn't shown that he can hold up to the workload of a No. 1 back. That he has battled through injuries most of this season suggest he can't handle that. Harris can, and he really only had one bad game out of the first five. Between the patchwork offensive line and teams not respecting the pass, he often had nowhere to go.

Harris is now seventh in the league in rushing and he is averaging 4.1 yards per carry, but the trend is better than that. The line seems to have settled in a bit, and hopefully, they can get Frazier back after the break.

Last night was a good look at what the Steelers expected their offense to be. Harris could easily put up career-best numbers this season and make the team look foolish for passing on his option.

 

Yes, Warren is a very effective change of pace back that should be getting 10-12 touches a game. He certainly could never be a workhouse back that lugs the ball over 20 times a game. He just doesn't have the size to do it.

 

I was just thinking the same thing. Would have been a bargain at 6.7 on the 5th year option. If he continues this trajectory he is going to command a hefty raise. And will get it.

Side note: I was on board with not giving him the 5th year option. When your wrong you stand up and admit.

 

Exactly. Not many backs his size are going to hold up when they run with a physical style like his. I love Warren, but he needs to be in his current role. That is why passing on Harris's option was a mistake. It is nice to see some other folks coming around.

 

Is Khan in trouble if the Steelers are forced to use the franchise tag on Najee next year?

 

Khan is a very long way from being in trouble. I would be surprised if Rooney hadn't signed off on that decision.

 

Man, when they were closing the game out they started putting a lead fullback in there ... that was exciting to see... he was close to breaking one of them.

 

Remember the great Derrick Henry make only 8 millions per year for 2 years and he is still the best RB in the NFL

 

I totally agree. Even though I don't like it

 

They don’t necessarily want him out

He absolutely wants to get paid enormous amounts of money

I don’t believe he will get it

I will not be surprised if after testing FA he signs again with Pittsburgh

Possibly for less than I am guessing he has already was offered

 

That is one game

 

Exactly

Although I suspect they had contract extension talks with him before declining the 5th year option

And they didn’t like what was being requested

 

You don't actually want to see the rest of the season for Warren. That was his best game this year.
Although if the passing game continues to get better....those lanes will get easier for both backs.

 

I’ll take your word

My crystal ball is out for repairs

 

You need a crystal ball for what has already happened??
I didn't mean it was the best He will have this season. I meant its the best he's had so far this season in the 5 games he's played.
Maybe I just didn't word it right.

 

I believe you said

“You don't actually want to see the rest of the season for Warren”

 

Exactly what he has played so far. That's why I said I worded it wrong. My bad.

 

he is not in trouble

it seems like the wrong decision was made at this point.

most of us felt that 5th yr option was a good value.

but at the same time, Najee seemed to indicate he wanted OUT.

MAYBE they agree to a reasonable 4 yr deal - who knows what excitement awaits us.....!!!!

 

Agreed. We don't know what the future may bring on this subject.

 

Rod Woodsen did that. That one hur,t.possibly top 5 Steeler of all time.