History of Najee Harris in Timeline
Najee Harris is an American football running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was drafted by the Steelers in the first round of the 2021 NFL draft after playing college football at Alabama.
1972: Historic Start to Rookie Season
Najee Harris became the first Steelers' rookie since Franco Harris in 1972 to both score a rushing touchdown and rush for over 100 yards within their first five games, an impressive feat for the young running back.
1992: Record-Tying Performance Against the Bengals
In a game against the Cincinnati Bengals in 1992, Najee Harris tied the NFL record for most catches by a rookie running back in a single game, showcasing his versatility as a receiver out of the backfield.
March 9, 1998: Birth of Najee Harris
Najee Jerome Harris was born on March 9, 1998.
2009: Comparison to Bryce Brown
Najee Harris's hype as a recruit drew comparisons to Bryce Brown, who was highly touted coming out of high school in 2009.
2014: High School Sophomore Season
Najee Harris rushed for 2,263 yards and 23 touchdowns as a sophomore at Antioch High School in 2014.
2014: Comparison to Leonard Fournette
The excitement surrounding Najee Harris's potential coming out of high school in 2014 drew comparisons to Leonard Fournette, another highly-touted running back prospect.
2015: Commitment to Alabama
Najee Harris committed to play college football at the University of Alabama in 2015.
2017: Start of College Career at Alabama
Najee Harris began playing college football at the University of Alabama in 2017 under head coach Nick Saban.
2017: Top Recruit Status
Najee Harris was considered the #1 recruit in the class of 2017 by Scout and Rivals.
January 2019: Signing with Beast Mode Marketing
In January 2019, Najee Harris signed with Beast Mode Marketing, a marketing agency founded by former NFL running back Marshawn Lynch.
2019: Breakout Season and Citrus Bowl Victory
In 2019, Najee Harris became the starting running back for Alabama and had a breakout season. He finished the year with a strong performance in the Citrus Bowl, helping Alabama secure a 35-16 victory over Michigan.
2020: End of College Career at Alabama
Najee Harris played his final season of college football at the University of Alabama in 2020.
2020: Decision to Return to Alabama
Despite speculation that he would enter the 2020 NFL draft, Najee Harris announced his decision to stay at Alabama for his senior year in 2020.
2020: Dominant Senior Season and National Championship Victory
Najee Harris had an exceptional senior season at Alabama in 2020, leading the Crimson Tide to an undefeated season and a national championship. He showcased his skills throughout the year with impressive performances, including a memorable game against Ole Miss where he scored five rushing touchdowns. His accomplishments earned him a fifth-place finish in the Heisman Trophy voting.
2020: Graduation from Alabama
Najee Harris graduated from the University of Alabama in 2020 with a degree in Consumer Services, demonstrating his commitment to both his education and football career.
May 25, 2021: Signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers
Najee Harris signed his rookie contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers on May 25, 2021, officially starting his NFL career.
2021: Da' Bigger Picture Foundation Founded
In 2021, Najee Harris teamed up with California governor Gavin Newsome to launch Da' Bigger Picture Foundation, a nonprofit organization. The organization's mission is to support families struggling with homelessness and hunger.
2021: NFL Draft Selection
Najee Harris was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the 2021 NFL draft.
2021: NFL Draft Day Choice
On this day in 2021, Najee Harris made the decision to skip attending the NFL draft in Cleveland, Ohio. Instead, he chose to spend the day hosting a party for children at the Greater Richmond Interfaith Program homeless shelter, a place where he spent time during his childhood. He later joined family and friends to watch the draft at a restaurant in Emeryville, California, owned by Marshawn Lynch.
2022: Overcoming Slow Start and Clutch Performance
After a slow start to the 2022 season, Najee Harris finished strong, demonstrating resilience and determination. His performance in Week 17 against the Baltimore Ravens, which included the game-winning touchdown reception, was a testament to his ability to deliver in crucial moments.
2022: 1,000-Yard Rushing Season
Najee Harris achieved a significant milestone in 2022 by rushing for over 1,000 yards, marking the second consecutive season he reached that mark.
2022: Pro Bowl Selection and All-Rookie Honors
Najee Harris earned his first Pro Bowl selection in 2022 as an alternate, replacing Joe Mixon. He was also recognized for his outstanding rookie season by being named to the NFL All-Rookie Team.
May 2, 2024: Steelers Decline Fifth-Year Option
On May 2, 2024, the Pittsburgh Steelers decided to decline the fifth-year option on Najee Harris' rookie contract, setting him on a path to potentially become a free agent after the 2024 season.