The Pittsburgh Steelers appear poised to move on from Najee Harris as they head into next season, having declined his fifth-year option last offseason.
Without Harris, the Steelers will need to address the significant challenge of replacing his consistent production of 1,000 rushing yards per season.
This year’s draft class boasts one of the deepest pools of running back talent in recent memory, but Pittsburgh may consider making a bold move by selecting a running back in the first round.
Former Boise State standout is a prime candidate. With the second-highest single-season rushing total in NCAA history—just 28 yards shy of Barry Sanders’ record—Jeanty projects as a top-tier NFL contributor and is expected to be among the first running backs drafted.
While Jeanty didn’t surpass Sanders’ legendary marks for single-season rushing yards and touchdowns, he shattered numerous Boise State records, including:
- Most rushing yards in a season: 2,601
- Most rushing touchdowns in a season: 29
- Most 100-yard rushing games in a season: 13
- Most career rushing yards: 4,665
- Most career 200-yard rushing games: 8
Kyle Crabbs of The 33rd Team predicts the Steelers will select Jeanty in the first round, focusing on the best player available rather than strictly team fit.
“The Steelers’ DNA is well established,” Crabbs wrote. “This team thrives on physical football. Under Mike Tomlin, they want to play smash-mouth football and dominate on the ground. With Najee Harris hitting free agency after four years and nearly 1,300 touches, re-signing him might make sense, but investing heavily in a running back is always a debated move. Instead, Pittsburgh could capitalize on Ashton Jeanty’s draft slide to secure a fresh workhorse behind their revamped offensive line.”
While it’s uncertain if Jeanty will still be available at the Steelers’ 21st overall pick, landing him would be a significant boost for a team in need of a dynamic playmaker. Even if Jeanty is off the board, the depth of this year’s running back class ensures plenty of strong alternatives for Pittsburgh.
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