2024 was a rollercoaster of a season for fourth-year running back Najee Harris.
Despite reaching the 1,000-yard plateau for a fourth consecutive season, his overall performance on the field left much to be desired. To put it into perspective, Harris averaged only 4 yards per carry, the second highest of his career. In contrast, his teammate Jaylen Warren finished with 4.3 yards per carry, the lowest of his career. Consistency and efficiency have been issues for Harris since his rookie season. Whether the problem lies in offensive schematics, questionable offensive line play, or Harris himself, he has yet to break through in these aspects.
What can be said is that when Harris is at his best, the Pittsburgh Steelers benefit greatly. This season, Harris posted three consecutive 100-yard rushing performances, and the team's record in those games was 3-0. For his career, the Steelers are 8-0-1 when Harris registers 100 or more rushing yards in a game. Expanding that to 70 or more rushing yards in a game, the Steelers' record this season was 5-1.
For Harris to be most productive, it starts by recognizing his strengths. In other words, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith needs to make major adjustments to the run schemes. This season, the Steelers were tied for third in rush attempts but ranked 25th in yards per carry. From what we've seen, Smith tends to favor outside zone runs, but as a traditional downhill runner, Harris' athletic limitations have prevented him from being consistently productive in these situations.
Inside zone runs are a different story. This was best displayed during one of his runs in Week 6 against the Las Vegas Raiders, where he eluded a defender inside and took it 26 yards. That play was one of the best examples of when scheme, effective blocking, and opportunity come together. Though the Steelers will be facing a more sound defensive unit in the Baltimore Ravens, the idea of putting Harris in a position to succeed still applies.
With little indication of an extension beyond this season, Harris' future with the Steelers remains uncertain. Yet, a big-time performance against the Ravens could do much to change that. Above all, helping the Steelers secure their first playoff win in almost a decade could be what earns him the extension he's been waiting for.
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