Steelers Now
Former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris is already turning heads in Los Angeles. The fifth year back, now with the Chargers, has impressed his new coaching staff in the early stages of the offseason program.
“I’m blown away,” Greg Roman, the Chargers’ offensive coordinator said. “His knowledge, movement, ability, it’s exciting.”
Despite the high praise, Harris may not be a workhorse back in L.A. The Chargers selected North Carolina standout Omarion Hampton in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, suggesting the backfield duties will be split. Still, the early optimism surrounding Harris is a good sign for his role moving forward.
Harris, the 24th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft by Pittsburgh, never developed into a true home run threat but proved to be remarkably durable and consistent. He rushed for 1,000 yards in each of his first four seasons and never missed a game. Known for his physical, downhill style, Harris consistently ran through contact and handled a heavy workload.
The Steelers declined Harris’s fifth-year option, paving the way for him to return home to Los Angeles, where he grew up.
Pastures could indeed be greener in L.A. He’ll now run behind a more talented offensive line featuring Joe Alt and Mekhi Becton, a major upgrade from the inconsistent group he played behind in Pittsburgh. Additionally, he’ll be coached by Jim Harbaugh, a veteran leader known for leaning on the run game.
He’ll also benefit from playing alongside a true franchise quarterback in Justin Herbert, which should lighten defensive fronts. In Pittsburgh, Harris often faced stacked boxes because of the team’s unreliable passing attack.
Recent NFL history has shown that running backs can thrive with a change of scenery and better personnel. Saquon Barkley, for example, was a solid back in New York but elevated his game to new heights with the Eagles, where he rushed for 2,000 yards in his first season.
While Harris may not reach that level of production, the early endorsement from his coordinator is an encouraging sign that he could be poised for a resurgence in Los Angeles.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Ex-Steelers Running Back Najee Harris Drawing Early Praise with Chargers
