2021 NFL Draft: Najee Harris a powerful runner on light feet

Where Najee Harris Wins

Harris possesses a world of talent in the Crimson Tide backfield, displaying a great deal of translatable traits to the NFL. From start to finish, Harris is a powerful runner who puts a great deal of versatility on tape as he goes to work in the Alabama backfield.

The patience Harris puts on tape is immaculate as he bides his time, waiting for holes to develop in front of him. Matching his patience, Harris’ eyes are active as he scans for running lanes, effectively and efficiently reading the hips of the blockers in front of him. His cutback vision is impressive as well, as he can plant his foot on a dime and attack any crease he sees.

Not only is Harris explosive and strong through the hole, displaying excellent contact balance and burst, but he is a talented open field runner as well. For being as big as he is, Harris plays with feather-like feet, able to make defenders miss or put his athleticism on display with a hurdle. He packs a punch, but plays light; this duo of traits makes him a talented collegiate runner, and this will translate nicely to the next level. In fact, it looks like Harris may have slimmed down and toned up this offseason as well.

Not only are his feet light, but his hands are soft. Harris is an impressive receiver out of the backfield, and even shows the ability to make incredible adjustments on the ball down the field and around the boundary. He looks like a seasoned receiver when his number is called upon in the passing game, making him all the more appealing to NFL teams.

Where, however, does Harris have room to improve?