(Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
Steelers first-round pick Najee Harris has been often compared to Le'Veon Bell, as they're both built the same and have a similar running style. Yesterday, Charles Davis of the NFL Network compared Harris to another former Steeler running back who is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame and just so happens to share the same last name of the Alabama product.
"What would have been perfect is if Franco Harris had announced him as the pick because that was my comp for him," Davis said. "I believe Franco announced the second-round pick for the Steelers, missed it by one round. But a big, strong, physical guy. I mean, their dimensions 6-2, 230 pounds -- can run inside shred a defense, catch the ball out of the backfield. That's what Najee has added to the game as well, although we'll never forget Franco's hands on the 'Immaculate Reception.' But to me, it was almost central casting. And that's where we are, just remember all those backs that were picked later, a lot of them are those dual-threat backs like Kenneth Gainwell out of Memphis and Demetric Felton out of UCLA. That's where the game appears to be heading, but Najee Harris; perfect for the Steel City."
In an interview with Bryan DeArdo of CBS Sports last week, Franco said he would like to see the Steelers select Najee in the draft.
"We need a running game. I can't tell you how disappointed it was last year, we get to within the 5-yard line going into the end zone and we're throwing all the time," Harris said. "We're not pounding it in there and having running backs do their thing. We need a running back that can really make a difference. This Harris kid is a tough kid. I feel he could really make a difference. Him or Travis Etienne from Clemson."
After the selection was made last Thursday night, Franco was thrilled with the pick.
"It's unbelievable the Steelers picked another Harris," Franco said via Teresa Varley of Steelers.com. "It's incredible. Welcome to Pittsburgh."
It will be interesting to see if Najee can break Franco's 1972 rookie franchise record of 1,055 yards rushing this season.
Comments