NFL Draft: Predicting the top performing 2021 rookie at each position

Running Back: Najee Harris

Despite the ideological shift in the importance of the running back position, there are still offenses that are RB-centric and depend on a player who can contribute on all three downs. The Pittsburgh Steelers were clearly interested in having that again in their offense with the selection of Najee Harris in the first round of this past NFL Draft.

Harris should get a bulk of the load, and despite a patchwork offensive line up front, should be able to create on his own and pick up yardage after contact. His quickness and footwork as a “slasher” type at Alabama was incredible to watch, and he has some of the better hands and ball skills in recent memory. Don’t forget about his contact balance and willingness to drop the pads.

Opportunity will breed production in this instance, and that’s the main reason that Harris will be the top rookie producer at running back. But, he’ll be the top performer because of the well-rounded skill set he brings to the table and could be driving the Steelers forward on offense during the playoff push. While other backs sit in committees, Harris will be the feature guy from the start and should prove why he went in round one.