One of the hot topics of the Pittsburgh Steelers off-season was Najee Harris and his reported weight gain. The sophomore running back has since clarified those reports, on several occasions. Essentially, there wasn't much to the weight gain story, as he only weighs a few more pounds than his rookie year.
On Monday, Harris joined former NFL defensive back, Bryant McFadden, whom spent six seasons with the Steelers and won two Super Bowls, for an interview on All Things Covered. Harris was asked about those rumors from the off-season. The Alabama product responded with a theory of his own as to why the rumor was started.
"I think they were just bored because Ben [Roethlisberger] retired, so they had nothing to talk about. Somehow, it changed to me and my weight. They tried to say something like [comparing] me and Jerome Bettis."
Former Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback, Bryant McFadden (#20). | Credit: Steelers.com
To be fair, there was plenty to talk about this off-season with the Steelers. In fact, more than any off-season I can remember. Roethlisberger's retirement actually gave people more to talk about, in addition to how active the team was in free agency. Former GM Kevin Colbert went out with a bang, as he made several upgrades across the roster, most specifically the offensive line.
As for McFadden, he's recently worked for CBS Sports as an NFL analyst. He seems to still be working for CBS Sports and now, he's just the latest current/former athlete to join the podcasting world. All Things Covered features not only him, but eight-time Pro Bowler Patrick Peterson as well. After spending most of his career with the Arizona Cardinals, Peterson spent 2021 with the Minnesota Vikings and will be back with them this year. Harris discussed what he weighs right now in comparison to last season.
"I played at 242 last year, [and] I weighed in at 244 during OTA's," Harris said to McFadden on All Things Covered. "I have no fat, I have the lowest percent of fat, it's just straight muscle."
The controversy surrounding Harris' weight all seemed a bit over-exaggerated from the media. The size numbers posted on team websites can always be inaccurate as well. Truthfully, who cares? If it becomes an endurance issue during the season, then we'll talk about it. Until then, Harris has shown us nothing to provide any worry heading into 2022.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, Kenny Pickett (#8), and running back, Najee Harris (#22), practice at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex during the 2022 minicamp, Wednesday, June 8, 2022. | Photo Credit: Abigail Dean / Pittsburgh Steelers
Harris adding a few pounds, two to be exact, of muscle may actually be a good thing. It's how guys like Derrick Henry of the Tennessee Titans maintain consistent workloads. After 381 touches in his rookie season, that likely will continue into the 2022 season for Harris. The Steelers haven't made any notable moves to try and address their backup running back situation. Harris adding muscle will hopefully help him carry that kind of workload once again this season.
What do you guys think about this ongoing weight "gain" controversy with Harris? What are your expectations for the star running back in Year 2? Let us know your thoughts relating to Najee Harris in the comment section below!
#SteelerNation
