Ranking all 8 of the Steelers rookie play so far in 2021

Steelers Najee Harris

While many will be upset to not see Najee Harris claim the top rookie spot on this list, quite frankly he doesn’t deserve it. Has he played well? Of course, but he lacks the elite play-ability that most hoped the team was getting when the Steelers choose him in the first round. He has run hard, gotten the tough yards, and has been a valuable receiver, but that should be expected for an early-round running back.

Harris has provided a consistent face in the backfield, but he hasn’t been an elite back to this point. He struggles to break off long runs (don’t expect that to change much, as he isn’t a very fast back). He is constantly moving forward though and picking up the tough yards, but again, this was the expectation for Harris given his first-round draft status. He hasn’t disappointed by any means, but he has been as expected so far.

For anyone clinging to the argument that the offensive line is the issue, stop. The Steelers could have selected Landon Dickerson or Creed Humphrey instead of Harris if the line was the issue. The expectation was for Harris to be an elite back no matter who was blocking for him. He hasn’t been that, although his overall play has been fine. He isn’t deserving of the top spot though, as one rookie has been truly impressive this season.