Najee Harris 2021 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Name: Najee Harris 

Position: Running Back

College: Alabama

Height: 6’1 ⅞”

Weight: 230 lbs

Overall Rank: No. 19 overall

Position Rank: RB1

Strengths: A powerful, productive runner with an NFL frame and three-down ability. Harris can run with power and motor over defenders but he also shows a smoothness to his game with agility to bounce runs outside the tackle box. He’s known for leaping defenders but he’s capable of putting them on the ground, too. A high-character, well-mannered player who returned for his senior season; Harris showed improvements in the passing game in 2020 and leaves Alabama as a well-rounded, three-down player. He’s a talented short-area runner with power, burst and creativity as a ball-carrier. Ball security is not an issue. Harris knows how to follow his blocks to daylight and is the definition of an NFL-style runner with a blend of power, agility, and vision. In the passing game, Harris showed in 2020 refined hands but perhaps most importantly an ability to handle pass-rushers as a blocker. 

Weaknesses: Carrying a heavy load at Alabama is something teams must consider; Harris had nearly 300 touches in 2020. He’s a bit of a mauler as a runner and doesn’t flash run-away speed in the open-field. His instincts at times are questionable in terms of seeing and feeling where openings exist. He’s also run behind an all-world offensive line at Alabama. Harris has to learn to slow down his mind to better see the field.

What I Love: Harris’ all-around game is special. He’s a punishing back at 230 pounds but he’s a smooth route-runner with soft hands and a sturdy base in pass protection. It’s rare to see three down skill sets like his from a college runner, which is why he’s RB1 in the class.

NFL Comparison: Matt Forte

Grade: 90/100

Position Specific Traits:
(key: +, ++, +++ positive scale | -, - -, - - - negative scale)

Agility: ++
Ball Security: +++
Blocking: +++
Contact Balance: ++
Hands: ++
Power: +++
Speed: +