Najee Harris
RB - Pittsburgh Steelers
2024 Outlook
Najee Harris reportedly changes his diet to slim down this offseason.
Fantasy Impact
Harris had the fifth-year option in his rookie contract declined by the Steelers, so he has a lot to play for this season. “It’s all fueling his fire to have an even better season than last year and prove a lot of people wrong,” said Harris' trainer Josh Scott. “There's a lot of people that hate on him for whatever reason, but he's been as consistent as you can be. He’s durable. I think he's going to continue with that. I mean, contract season, that pretty much speaks for itself.” Harris lost about seven pounds this offseason and has been “extremely clean — almost obsessively clean — with his diet.” He still figures to share the workload with Jaylen Warren in the Steelers backfield this season.
Najee Harris' fifth-year contract has been declined by the Steelers as he enters his fourth year in the league.
Fantasy Impact
Harris' impact on the field has varied greatly throughout his career in Pittsburgh. During his rookie year, Harris totaled 1200 rushing yards and just under 500 passing yards, but he has not been able to meet or surpass either of those marks in the subsequent years. While injuries have likely contributed to his inefficiencies, the Steelers haven't seen enough to option him for his fifth year. Harris looks to remain the early down and goal line back for the Steelers going into his final contract year. Meanwhile, running mate Jaylen Warren remains the more explosive option in the Steelers rushing attack as the offense gets a new starting quarterback and new offensive coordinator.
Steelers GM Najee Harris was noncommittal when asked about the fifth-year option for Najee Harris.
Fantasy Impact
If the Steelers were to pick up the option, it would cost them $6.79 million. We have until the first week in May to make a decision,” Khan said. "We have a new offensive coordinator, so that’s gonna play into the decision-making process. We’re having conversations with Arthur. It’s been great. We’ve been engaging frequently — coach Tomlin and Arthur and I — we’ve kind of been talking about the offense and what the vision is for it. And we think very highly of Najee and we’ll make the decision before May 2.” Harris ran for 1,035 yards on 255 yards with eight touchdowns on the ground last season while splitting snaps with Jaylen Warren.
Najee Harris is off the injury report for Saturday's game against the Ravens.
Fantasy Impact
The status of Harris was never expected to be in doubt. He should remain in his lead role alongside Jaylen Warren this weekend in the Steelers backfield.
Najee Harris was limited in practice on Tuesday.
Fantasy Impact
Harris is coming off a huge 27 carry performance this past weekend with two touchdowns, so it would make sense that he is limited in practice. He should remain in the RB2 conversation this week against the Ravens.