Is Steelers running back Najee Harris missing running lanes?
After an impressive rookie season in which he rushed for 1,200 yards, Steelers running back Najee Harris has struggled through the first two games of his second season. The former first-round pick has 72 yards rushing on 25 attempts, good for just 2.9 yards per carry.
Some blame the Steelers' maligned offensive line and offensive coordinator Matt Canada for the offense's struggles and Harris' lack of production. However, ex-Steeler offensive lineman Trai Essex, a two-time Super Bowl champion, blames Harris for some of the issues.
On Monday, Essex posted a screenshot of the first play from the Steelers' 17-14 loss to the Patriots on Sunday. He said Harris "predetermined" his decision to bounce to the outside with the play "blocked almost to perfection."
This wasn't the only play in which Harris seemingly missed an open rushing lane.
Harris may not be fully healthy after missing the end of the team's Week 1 win because of a foot injury. The Steelers want to lessen Harris' load this season following a rookie year in which he had 307 rushing attempts.
Harris' rushing and receiving ability, however, are key components of the offense, which gets another shot Thursday night in Cleveland.
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