Will Najee Harris Be A Top-10 Fantasy RB In 2023? Fantasy Football Outlook

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris was the 24th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. Harris had an outstanding college career, totaling 460 rushing attempts for 2,690 yards and 39 touchdowns over his final two years at Alabama. Furthermore, the star running back had 70 receptions for 729 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns during those two years.

Harris was the first running back drafted in 2021 and came with his expectations as a rookie. The former Alabama star had an excellent rookie season, totaling 307 rushing attempts for 1,200 yards and seven touchdowns. The rookie also had 74 receptions on 94 targets for 467 receiving yards and three touchdowns, leading all running backs in receptions and targets.

Furthermore, he made the pro bowl as a rookie after totaling the most touches in the NFL. More importantly, Harris was the RB4, averaging 15.5 half-point PPR fantasy points per game in 2021.

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What Did Najee Harris Accomplish In 2022?

Following his impressive rookie year, fantasy players had high expectations for the former Alabama start last season. Unfortunately, Harris failed to live up to those expectations, totaling 272 rushing attempts for 1,034 yards and seven touchdowns.

While his rushing attempts per game declined by 11.4%, the lack of passing game work had more of an impact on the star running back’s fantasy production. Harris averaged 5.5 targets per game as a rookie but only saw 3.1 targets per game last year. However, that wasn’t the only reason the running back struggled last season.

Will Najee Harris Be A Top-10 Fantasy RB In 2023?

Harris suffered a foot injury during training camp in 2022. While the injury didn’t force him to miss any games, it did impact his production. He was the RB14 last year, averaging 11.9 fantasy points per game. However, Harris averaged 86.4 scrimmage yards and 14.7 fantasy points per game over the final eight contests.

Meanwhile, the Steelers made several moves to improve their run game this offseason. They signed multiple starting offensive linemen in free agency, including left guard Isaac Seumalo from the Philadelphia Eagles.

Furthermore, Pittsburgh used their first-round pick in the NFL Draft on left tackle Broderick Jones. The team also spent a third-round selection on tight end Darnell Washington. Many NFL Draft scouts believe he can block like an offensive tackle.

While Harris lacks the upside to finish as the overall RB1 this season, fantasy players should feel confident the former Alabama star will be a top-10 running back in 2023.

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