Steelers Now
Mercury News and other outlets reported last week that former Pittsburgh Steelers running back and current Los Angeles Charger Najee Harris was injured in a firework explosion on the Fourth of July.
Harris’ agent, Doug Hendrickson, released a statement on the incident, stating that his client is expected to make a full recovery in time for the season.
“Najee Harris was present at a 4th of July event where a fireworks mishap resulted in injuries to several attendees. Najee sustained a superficial eye injury during the incident, but is fully expected to be ready for the upcoming NFL season,” Hendrickson stated.
Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz revealed on Wednesday that Harris will likely begin training camp on the Non-Football Injury (NFI) list, according to Daniel Popper of The Athletic.
Harris is expected to report to The Bolt later on Wednesday, per Hortiz. Harris has been receiving treatment from doctors at Stanford.
#Chargers GM Joe Hortiz said Najee Harris (eye) will likely begin training camp on NFI. Harris is expected to report to The Bolt later today, per Hortiz. Harris has been receiving treatment from doctors at Stanford.
— Daniel Popper (@danielrpopper) July 16, 2025
The NFL has encountered similar situations involving fireworks in the past. Notably, Jason Pierre-Paul lost multiple fingers on his hand in 2015. The injury didn’t end his career as he played until 2023.
Regardless, the NFL has made it a point to warn players of firework hazards. It remains to be seen how this injury will affect Harris both on and off the field.
Harris was drafted by the Steelers in 2021 out of Alabama in the first round. Although he was a steady and strong contributor, his career overall underwhelmed compared to his draft position. He appeared to take the first opportunity out of Pittsburgh that he could–which landed him in his home state of California.
The Antioch Police Department released a statement indicating that they are still investigating the incident.
Jobe Morrison contributed reporting for this story.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: New Details Revealed on Ex-Steelers RB Najee Harris’ Eye Injury
