The Pittsburgh Steelers made a strategic move by opting not to exercise the fifth-year option for running back Najee Harris, a decision that proved to be prudent. Harris hadn’t showcased top-tier running back performance until Jaylen Warren’s emergence overshadowed him in recent seasons, particularly in pass-catching situations. With Warren outperforming Harris and essentially taking over the role of the primary passing down back, the cost of retaining Harris’s option was outweighed by the benefits.
This decision was influenced by the Steelers’ urgent need to enhance their running game following the 2020 season. With quarterback Ben Roethlisberger nearing the end of his career, the team management aimed to bolster their rushing attack, starting with acquiring a running back. However, this approach, which prioritized the running back over strengthening the offensive line, was flawed. Typically, teams focus on building a ground game from the trenches outward, but the Steelers opted for a different strategy, beginning from the inside out, starting with the running back. While bold, it remains to be seen if this unconventional approach will pay dividends for them.
In the 2021 NFL Draft, the Steelers selected Alabama running back Najee Harris with their first-round pick, 24th overall, while the Jacksonville Jaguars chose Clemson running back Travis Etienne with the very next pick, at number 25. The decision to pass on Etienne likely stemmed from his differing physical profile compared to the Steelers’ preferred style, which has evolved from Rashard Mendenhall to Le’Veon Bell, James Conner, and now Najee Harris. The Steelers favor larger, more traditional bell-cow style running backs under head coach Mike Tomlin, rather than smaller, shiftier options like Etienne.
While preferences are valid, organizations shouldn’t limit themselves to players who precisely fit their mold, especially if it means overlooking talented individuals who could elevate the team’s performance. Harris and Etienne possess distinct playing styles: Harris is known for his physicality, reliable receiving ability, and power running, while Etienne boasts explosive speed, elusiveness, and versatility as a runner and receiver. However, Harris struggles with lateral movement, lacks top-end speed, and occasionally shows indecision behind the line of scrimmage. On the other hand, Etienne excels in agility, speed, and receiving, but has faced injury setbacks and may be better suited for a committee role.
Ultimately, the Steelers’ decision not to exercise Harris’s fifth-year option reflects a calculated assessment of his fit within their system and their long-term goals, while the Jaguars’ choice to pick up Etienne’s option aligns with their vision for his role on the team.
