Summary

• Drafted: Round 1, 24th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pro Football Reference

• College: University of Alabama. espn.com

• Key Statistics / Career: As of 2025, Harris has rushed for 4,373 yards and 28 rushing touchdowns. NFL.com He has also been a solid pass-catcher (183 career receptions for 1,174 yards). NFL.com

• Accolades / Character: A powerful, tough runner who handled a workhorse role in Pittsburgh. Known for his balance, toughness, and consistent production. In 2025, he signed a one-year deal with the Chargers. Reuters

Strengths

• Power and Contact Balance — At 6’1″ and 242 lb, Harris is very strong through contact and rarely gets knocked backward. Pro Football Reference

• Workhorse Capability — Has shown he can take a high volume of carries: consistent 1,000+ yard seasons. espn.com

• Reliable Receiver — Good hands out of the backfield, able to catch many passes (he’s had 36 receptions in 2024). NFL.com

• Low Fumble / Ball Security — While not completely fumble-free, his turnover rate is relatively moderate for a high-usage back.

• Straight-Line Burst — Not just a grinder: he has enough speed to hit bigger runs when given space.

• Durability / Reliability — Has played many games through his early NFL career and handled a consistent workload. NFL.com

Weaknesses

• Lateral Elusiveness — Not a particularly slippery back; more downhill runner than juker.

• Breakaway Speed Ceiling — While powerful, he doesn’t always generate large, explosive, long runs; his big-play ceiling is somewhat limited.

• Pass Protection / Blocking — Not known for being a dominant blitz-out pass protector; could be improved in picking up pressures.

• YAC Variability — While he catches well, his yards after catch (YAC) are not always elite; he’s more of a power runner than a broken‑tackle YAC guy.

• Long-Term Value Risk — Given his profile and usage, his long-term effectiveness may decline if not used carefully; heavy workloads could take a toll.

Fit & Outlook

Najee Harris projects as a three-down, lead back in offenses that value a between-the-tackles runner who can also catch. He’s an ideal fit for power-zone or gap-run schemes, and he can be a bell‑cow back if his offensive line gives him lanes. With his receiving ability and ball security, he also works in third-down and two-back sets. Long-term, he could be a cornerstone running back if he remains healthy, though his value will likely be maximized in a committee or as a featured back early in his deals. Given his workhorse background and physical style, he offers a safe floor for teams needing dependable ground game production.