One area to improve for each member of Steelers 2021 draft class
By Andrew Falce
Steelers Harris
Issue: Big Runs
Najee Harris is a hard player to list here. The transition from running back to the NFL is relatively cut and dry. Sure, players can get stronger and leaner, but usually, backs aren’t making huge jumps because of developing as a pro. Harris, for the most part, is what he is: a great power back who can also serve as the primary third-down back for this team.
The one area he lacked as a rookie was big runs. Sure, the offensive line played a role in that, as they struggled to open basic holes for Harris let alone pave a huge pathway for the big guy to rumble through, but his long of 37 yards certainly leaves a lot to be desired. His main focus in year two has to be on making bigger plays and being less of a traditional three yards and a cloud of dust type back.
As a power back, Harris doesn’t have to be carving out big run after big run. He will never have the speed to be successful in doing so. That said, even bigger backs such as Derrick Henry and Jonathan Taylor can break off the occasional long run. Doing so will naturally up his yards per carry as well as his impact on the offense. No, he doesn’t need multiple huge runs a game, but the occasional big run mixed in with his consistent power runs will make him one of the top running backs in the league.
light. Must Read. 3 Steelers players that could be traded away during training camp
The Steelers saw a lot of production out of their rookie class last season, as almost every player became a key contributor somewhere. That said, there are still areas that this class will have to grow into heading into year two. If each member can improve in the category I outlined, we could see another healthy season from the entirety of this class yet again in 2022.