Time for a Change: Why Najee Harris Should Be Benched or Traded from the Pittsburgh Steelers
Najee Harris, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ first-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, was once touted as the future of the franchise’s backfield. A powerful runner with a unique blend of size and agility, Harris was expected to carry the Steelers’ rushing attack to new heights. But as we near the midway point of the 2024 season, it has become increasingly clear that Harris is not living up to his potential. In fact, his continued presence as the lead back is actively hurting the team’s chances of success. It’s time for the Steelers to seriously consider benching or even trading Najee Harris, and here’s why.
Lack of Vision and Instincts
One of the most glaring issues with Harris’s performance is his lack of vision as a runner. While he has the physical tools—standing at 6’1″ and weighing around 240 pounds—he consistently fails to identify open running lanes and make decisive cuts. Time and again, Harris runs directly into defenders or misses opportunities for big gains by hesitating in the backfield. This lack of vision is a major problem for any running back, but it’s especially concerning for one who was selected in the first round with the expectation of being a game-changer.
Compare Harris’s play to that of Jaylen Warren, his undrafted backup. Warren has shown far better instincts when it comes to finding running lanes and turning small openings into positive yards. His decisiveness and burst have led many to question why Harris continues to receive the lion’s share of the carries. When a former undrafted free agent is outplaying your supposed franchise back, it’s a clear sign that something is seriously wrong.
Inefficiency as a Runner
Harris’s inefficiency is well-documented. Through the first few games of the 2024 season, Harris has averaged less than four yards per carry—a benchmark that is widely considered the minimum for NFL running backs. His inability to consistently gain positive yards on first and second down puts the Steelers’ offense in difficult situations, leading to an excessive number of third-and-long plays. In contrast, Warren and other backs around the league have shown a much better ability to keep the offense ahead of schedule.
What’s more concerning is that Harris often struggles in short-yardage situations, a role where a back of his size should excel. Whether it’s failing to convert on third-and-1 or getting stuffed at the goal line, Harris has repeatedly come up short in critical moments. This inefficiency has cost the Steelers points and momentum in several games this season, making his continued role as the feature back all the more perplexing.
Declining Pass-Catching Ability
When Harris entered the NFL, one of his selling points was his versatility as a pass-catcher. In his rookie season, he caught 74 passes for 467 yards, showing that he could be a valuable weapon in the passing game. However, that aspect of his game has regressed significantly. In 2024, Harris has struggled with drops, and even when he does secure the ball, he hasn’t been nearly as effective after the catch. His lack of explosiveness in space is evident, and opposing defenses no longer view him as a serious threat in the passing game.
With the Steelers’ offense already struggling to generate big plays, Harris’s inability to contribute as a pass-catcher only adds to the team’s woes. In today’s NFL, where running backs are increasingly expected to be dual threats, Harris’s regression in this area is a significant liability.
Inconsistent Effort and Leadership
Beyond his on-field struggles, there have been growing concerns about Harris’s effort and leadership. While he has never been known as a vocal leader, his body language on the field has raised eyebrows in recent weeks. Whether it’s jogging back to the huddle after a failed play or showing frustration when he doesn’t get the ball, Harris’s demeanor has not been that of a player willing to take accountability for his poor performance.
Teammates and coaches have subtly hinted at a lack of urgency in Harris’s approach, and that kind of attitude can be toxic in a locker room. For a team like the Steelers, who pride themselves on toughness and accountability, Harris’s inconsistent effort is unacceptable. Leaders set the tone for the rest of the team, and right now, Harris isn’t leading by example.
Opportunity for a Fresh Start
Perhaps the most compelling reason to consider benching or trading Harris is the opportunity it provides for both the player and the team. Harris clearly has talent, but it’s possible that he needs a fresh start elsewhere to unlock his full potential. A trade could benefit both parties, allowing the Steelers to get draft capital or a player in return while giving Harris a new environment where he can thrive.
The Steelers, meanwhile, have other options in the backfield. Jaylen Warren has shown that he can handle a larger workload, and the team could explore bringing in another back via trade or free agency. Harris’s departure could also open the door for the Steelers to modernize their offense, focusing more on a committee approach that better suits today’s NFL.
Najee Harris was once seen as the future of the Pittsburgh Steelers, but his performance over the past two seasons has been nothing short of disappointing. From his lack of vision and inefficiency as a runner to his declining pass-catching ability and inconsistent effort, Harris has failed to meet the expectations placed on him as a first-round pick. For the Steelers, benching or trading Harris would send a clear message: performance matters more than pedigree. It’s time for the team to move on and explore other options in the backfield.