The Pittsburgh Steelers are going to be looking to improve on both sides of the football in the upcoming 2021 NFL Draft. Most mock draft’s have them taking an offensive player in the first round with the No. 24 overall pick. Picking up as much talent as possible now to build around Ben Roethlisberger and build for the future makes perfect sense.
On the outside looking in, the Steelers could use some help at the running back position. James Conner left town in free agency to sign with the Arizona Cardinals. That could lead to Pittsburgh taking a running back in the first round.
In the latest mock draft from The Athletic, they have the Steelers taking Alabama star running back Najee Harris.
Harris is highly skilled at toggling between patience and power to press holes and maximize each run. And with his ability as a pass-catcher, he gives the Steelers an immediate impact player who can help the organization contend this season.
Harris would be the perfect pick for the Steelers. They could also look at Clemson star running back Travis Etienne if they are inclined to go with a running back.
During his four-year career for the Crimson Tide, Harris racked up 638 carries for 3,843 yards and 46 touchdowns. Those numbers average out to an impressive 6.0 yards per carry. Harris also caught 80 passes for 781 yards and 11 touchdowns.
He may not be called a “dual-threat running back” right now, but the talent and ability is there. Etienne is a much better suited dual-threat back, but the Steelers need a hard runner who is capable of being a workhorse for their offense.
Standing in at 6-foot-2 and 230 pounds, Najee Harris reminds some of former Crimson Tide and current Tennessee Titans star Derrick Henry. He likely won’t end up being that kind of player, but he has touches of his game. Harris has actually received comparisons to former NFL star running back Steven Jackson.
It will be interesting to see what the Steelers end up deciding to do with the No. 24 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. Harris could be the pick and if they go that route they will not be disappointed.
