Steelers' Najee Harris Has A Clear Chip On His Shoulder As Pittsburgh Puts The Pads On

The Pittsburgh Steelers were able to suit up in full pads for the first time on Tuesday. This is always one of the more entertaining practices, with wide receivers and cornerbacks participating in one-on-ones and the iconic backs on backers drill. One of the highlights of the day wasn't necessarily a play, but it was Najee Harris' attitude. He had high energy, was clearly vocal, and had a bit of an extra pep in his step as he prepared to take on the linebackers.

Harris' relationship with the Steelers has been a bit odd from an outside perspective. The fourth-year running back was disappointed after the organization declined his fifth-year option, and he has been completely stonewalling the media since last season. It was good to see Harris getting fired up in practice on Tuesday, and it showed that he may have a little extra motivation going into the 2024 season. Brooke Pryor reported on Harris' efforts during backs on backers.

Elandon Roberts is considered an underrated linebacker in the grand scheme of things. His first year in Pittsburgh was in 2023, and his physical mindset and toughness became clear immediately. Harris holding him off for two straight reps is no small feat. The running back then had some things to say, which is always entertaining during training camp.

Harris had always been a leader of the Steelers' offense, even though he got his captains patch stripped from him following the 2022 season. There was a lot of speculation behind that. Some thought it was because of how he interacted with the media, or the way he called out things about the team. Whether he is an official captain or not, he leads by example and others take notice. Pryor wasn't the only training camp attendee to notice Harris' upbeat and motivated tone, as insider Brian Batko took note of it as well.

Harris and Jaylen Warren are expected to share the work load out of the backfield in a similar way to what they did in 2023. At times they were the only things going right for the Steelers offensively. Both running backs made a positive impression during the backs on backers drill, which sets the tone for the offense moving forward. The offense will hopefully be better in other areas in 2024, but Warren and Harris' consistency and physicality is something the organization can always rely on. 

Steelers' Jaylen Warren And Najee Harris Might Have Their Best Seasons In 2024

There has been a constant debate ever since Warren broke out about whether he or Harris should be the lead back in Pittsburgh. In 2024, both backs will likely see a good amount of success regardless of how the touches are split up. Arthur Smith's offense is known to be run-heavy, and Pittsburgh has made some significant investments along the offensive line.

The Steelers have one of the best guard duos in the league to lead the way, and then what should be three young players to fill out the rest of the holes. Pittsburgh was one of the best team's in the league at running the football during the second half of the 2023 season, that should be expected to continue. Both Harris and Warren are looking at big years, which is crucial for Harris as he is playing on an expiring deal.

What do you think of Harris being vocal at practice? Let us know in the comments below!

#SteelerNation