As a rookie in 2021, Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris took over the starting running back job and threw the entire rushing offense on his broad shoulders. Harris finished with 1,200 rushing yards and seemed to be in line to be the next great Steelers running back.
But the retirement of Ben Roethlisberger hit Harris just like it did the rest of the offense and as the team struggled, so did Harris. But even going beyond the poor play of the offensive line play and inconsistent quarterbacking, Harris wasn’t running like he’s capable of.
One of the strengths of Harris’ game is his ability to get behind his pads and burst through the hole with power. But Harris abandoned that in favor of exaggerated jump cuts and stopping his momentum in the backfield, resulting in wrestling with tacklers while he’s flat-footed and at a disadvantage.
With the bye week came changes. No player worked on their game more than Harris and he literally came out a different back. Quicker to the hole, more decisive and was one cut and go. These changes completely altered the Steelers rushing attack and turned everything around.
As far as a grade goes, I’m giving Harris a solid B. Not a perfect season by any means with his slow start but his willingness to accept coaching and make changes to his game for the betterment of the team gives him a big bump here.
case your vote and tell us what grade you give Harris for his 2022 season.
