Rodney Harrison Gives an Absolutely Crazy Version of Steelers’ Najee Harris: ‘Running In Sand’

Pittsburgh Steelers star running back, Naje Harris continues to receive unfair criticism from experts in the media. Harris has been heavily criticized, largely through no fault of his own. When a running back is drafted in the first round, expectations skyrocket and anything less than elite production is often seen as a disappointment.

Still, Harris delivered. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his first three seasons and remained a key part of the Steelers’ offense in 2024. Still, he can’t seem to avoid harsh judgment.

Rodney Harrison sparked controversy Friday with his bold assessment of Harris during a conversation with Mike Florio of Pro football talk. Harrison claimed that Jaylen WarrenHarris’ backup, is significantly better than the previous first-round pick. While Warren has shown impressive speed and tenacity, many fans and analysts view Harrison’s comments as an unnecessary slight against a proven starter who has carried the Steelers’ rushing attack in recent years.

“I think Jaylen Warren should be the starting running back,” Harrison said. “Najee Harris, when he runs, it seems like his legs are heavy. It looks like he’s running in the sand sometimes. Every now and then he gives you that energy and he runs like Ricky Watters, but for the most part, I start Warren as my running back.”

Harris has continually faced an uphill battle against criticism since entering the league, but his production speaks for itself. Whether it’s carving out tough yards in a run-heavy scheme or contributing as a pass-catcher, he has shown versatility and durability.

While Warren’s emergence adds valuable depth, the idea that Harris is somehow not living up to expectations feels misplaced. Most Steelers fans continue to rally behind their star and recognize his importance to the team’s offensive identity. It hasn’t been easy for Harris because he plays so hard, but he often has to feel like his value isn’t appreciated.

The Steelers decides to decline Harris’ fifth-year option in the 2024 offseason was far from reassuring for the former first-round pick. By choosing not to pick up the option, the organization sidestepped an opportunity to reward Harris for his efforts, which would have guaranteed him $6.79 million for the 2025 season. Instead, Harris will become a free agent at the end of 2024, leaving his future with the team uncertain.

Heading into the season, Harris was expected to deliver a breakout campaign, driven by the motivation to prove the organization wrong and boosted by an improved offensive line and the arrival of an offensive coordinator. Arthur Smith. While Harris has faced challenges, including running behind a broken offensive line, he has still delivered a solid performance.

With 157 carries for 645 yards and an average of 4.1 yards per carry, along with three touchdowns, Harris has remained a reliable workhorse. While this wasn’t the breakout year many expected, his value to the team remains clear. With AFC North playing and the brutal part of the schedule now arrived, Steeler Nation will get a chance to see just how reliable Harris is.

Steelers’ Najee Harris is needed to make the Run game work

Harris’ resilience was remarkable, playing every game despite the conditions. Meanwhile, Warren has made valuable contributions but has struggled with injuries and costly mistakes, such as his Week 10 fumble at the goal line against the Washington Commanders that nearly cost Pittsburgh the game.

While the duo complement each other well, the suggestion that Warren should replace Harris as starter ignores the balance they bring to the offense. Without Harris, the Steelers’ run game would likely falter. As Harris approaches free agency, the Steelers face a crucial decision regarding his future, and many fans are hoping the team will insure him in black and gold for years to come.