Najee Harris and David Montgomery may both play the same position, but their careers are on different trajectories
Harris is viewed as a centerpiece for the Steelers, with the potential to be a long-term force in the NFL.
Montgomery, while productive, may see his role reduced in the coming years as he shares the backfield with more dynamic playmakers.
Najee Harris’s Week 3 fantasy outlook is promising but not without risk. While his slow start to the season and the presence of Jaylen Warren are concerning, Harris’s role in the Steelers’ offense remains significant.
The matchup against the Colts is favorable enough to consider Harris a strong flex or RB2 option, particularly in standard leagues. If Harris can find the end zone or break off a few big runs, he could deliver the kind of performance fantasy managers have been waiting for.
Ultimately, Harris is a good, if not great, fantasy pick in Week 3, especially for those who need a reliable starter in their running back slot.
Also Read: How Will Brian Kelly’s Recruiting Efforts Influence LSU’s Performance This Year?
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Najee Harris and David Montgomery: Two Power Backs
When we think of the classic “thunder” running back archetype, two names come to mind from the NFL: Najee Harris of the Pittsburgh Steelers and David Montgomery of the Detroit Lions.1
Both are bruising backs who provide a physical presence, imposing their will between the tackles. However, while they play the same position and share similar styles in some aspects, their careers have diverged in significant ways.
From production to potential, let’s break down what makes these two players different and why one may have a brighter future than the other.
A Different Path to the NFL
David Montgomery’s path to the NFL was notably different from Harris’s. Montgomery, who played his college ball at Iowa State, entered the league with less fanfare. Drafted in the third round by the Chicago Bears in 2019, Montgomery was viewed as a steady, workmanlike runner.
At 5’11” and 224 pounds, Montgomery had the size and power to handle a heavy load, but his skill set was seen as less explosive compared to some of his peers.
While Harris came into the NFL with expectations of being a game-changer, Montgomery was viewed more as a grinder who could wear down defenses over the course of a game. Despite the lower draft position, he quickly became a key contributor for the Bears.
A Tale of Two Thousand-Yard Seasons
Montgomery’s career has been a rollercoaster. In his second year (2020), he posted a breakout campaign, rushing for 1,070 yards and eight touchdowns while adding 438 receiving yards. That performance cemented his place as one of the top young backs in the league.
However, he has only hit the 1,000-yard rushing mark one other time (2019), and injuries and inconsistent play have been persistent issues.
After four seasons in Chicago, Montgomery signed with the Detroit Lions in 2023, where he became the “thunder” to rookie Jahmyr Gibbs’ “lightning.” While still a productive player, Montgomery’s ceiling appears lower than that of Harris due to his lack of consistency and explosiveness.
Najee Harris: Who Is He?
Draft Pedigree and Expectations
Najee Harris entered the NFL with the weight of high expectations.2
Drafted in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft (24th overall) by the Pittsburgh Steelers, he was seen as the solution to the Steelers’ longstanding issues at running back.
Harris had a dominant college career at Alabama, where he won two national championships and solidified himself as one of the best backs in the country.
His physical attributes—standing 6’1″ and weighing 230 pounds—combined with his blend of power, vision, and pass-catching ability, made him a sought-after prospect.
Given the Steelers’ history of featuring workhorse backs like Le’Veon Bell and Jerome Bettis, Harris was expected to be the centerpiece of the offense for years to come.
Immediate Impact and Consistency
From the moment Harris took the field, he made his presence felt. In his rookie season (2021), Harris eclipsed 1,200 rushing yards, despite running behind an offensive line that was widely regarded as one of the worst in the league. He added 467 receiving yards, further showcasing his versatility.
Harris’s ability to handle a heavy workload—307 carries and 74 receptions—was a testament to his durability, a crucial factor for any NFL back.
Though the Steelers’ offense struggled with consistency due to an aging Ben Roethlisberger and offensive line woes, Harris emerged as a reliable focal point. He consistently produced in tough situations, often turning short-yardage situations into positive plays.
Also Read: Najee Harris’ Rookie Contract with the Steelers
Najee Harris and David Montgomery: Comparing Their Skill Sets
Power Running Style
Both Harris and Montgomery thrive in a power running scheme, using their size to churn out tough yards. They are both effective in short-yardage situations, particularly in the red zone.3
When looking at the tape, both players exhibit strong leg drive and balance, traits that allow them to break tackles and push piles.
However, Harris appears to have a slight edge when it comes to his ability to create yards after contact. His combination of height and weight makes him a difficult player to bring down, especially when he gets to the second level. Montgomery, while also tough to tackle, doesn’t seem to have the same top-end power as Harris.
#Cancun & #IslaMujeres photo dump! Had a great time visiting @TheMexCaribbean, just wanted to share in case any of y’all need a little motivation booking your trip. 🌴✨#TheSignatureParadise pic.twitter.com/EocwKgsFGr
— Najee Harris (@ohthatsNajee22) September 19, 2024
Pass-Catching Ability
One of the most important aspects of the modern NFL running back is their ability to contribute in the passing game, and this is where the two backs differ significantly.
While Montgomery is capable of catching passes out of the backfield, Harris is far more polished in this area. His 74 receptions as a rookie are a testament to his versatility, and he is often utilized as a safety valve for the quarterback when the passing game stalls.
Montgomery has never been used as a true dual-threat back, and while he has had some solid receiving numbers, he doesn’t possess the same natural route-running ability or hands that Harris does.
In today’s NFL, a running back’s ability to impact the passing game can greatly extend their career, and this is one area where Harris has a clear advantage.
Is Najee Harris a Good Fantasy Pick in Week 3?
In Week 3, fantasy football managers are facing a critical decision regarding Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris.
With the Steelers set to face the Indianapolis Colts, questions have arisen about whether Harris is a strong option to start in fantasy lineups.
Despite concerns over a possible injury earlier in the week, head coach Mike Tomlin has confirmed that Harris will be available, raising hopes for a solid performance. Let’s explore Harris’s potential for Week 3, his season trajectory, and how he stacks up against the Colts defense.
Najee Harris’s Season So Far
- Najee Harris has been a vital cog in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offense since he was drafted in 2021, but his 2024 season hasn’t been off to a spectacular start.
- Through two games, Harris has been slow to find his rhythm, averaging just 3.1 yards per carry and failing to find the end zone.
- For fantasy football owners, this slow start may be cause for concern, especially considering the growing role of backup Jaylen Warren.
- Warren, who has flashed both in the running and passing game, is beginning to eat into Harris’s workload, leading to a time-share that could limit Harris’s upside.
- In Week 2, Warren outperformed Harris with more targets in the passing game, further muddying the fantasy waters for Harris owners.
- However, it’s crucial to remember that Harris has historically been a volume-based fantasy contributor. His value often comes from receiving touches, whether on the ground or through short passes.
- If the Steelers recommit to getting Harris more involved, his fantasy potential could rise significantly in Week 3.
The Injury Scare: Cause for Concern or Overblown?
Fantasy managers were left in limbo earlier this week when Harris was spotted wearing a sling during practice on Monday. Speculation grew over whether he would be able to play in Week 3.
However, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin quickly put those concerns to rest, stating that Harris was healthy and would take the field against the Colts.
While the injury scare may have dampened some expectations, Tomlin’s reassurance is significant. Barring any setbacks, Harris should see his usual workload, giving fantasy managers confidence in starting him.
Still, there is always the risk of re-aggravation, especially in a high-contact role like running back. It’s worth monitoring Harris’s health closely leading up to game time.
The Matchup: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Indianapolis Colts
A key factor in determining Harris’s Week 3 fantasy outlook is the matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts have been a middling defense this season, but they do boast two standout defenders: defensive tackle DeForest Buckner and cornerback Kenny Moore II.
Buckner is particularly effective at stopping the run, which could create a challenge for Harris as he looks to find room to operate.
On the flip side, the Colts have allowed an average of 113 rushing yards per game through the first two weeks, ranking them in the middle of the pack. While they are not a pushover, the Colts defense is far from elite when it comes to stopping the run.
This opens the door for Harris to potentially have a solid performance, especially if the Steelers’ offensive line can hold up against Buckner and company.
Additionally, the Steelers will likely want to establish the run early to take pressure off quarterback Kenny Pickett, who has struggled with consistency in his second year. If Pittsburgh can successfully build a balanced offensive attack, Harris could benefit from a steady stream of touches.
Najee Harris: Fantasy Value in Different Formats
It’s important to assess Harris’s value in different fantasy football formats. In standard leagues, Harris’s value is largely tied to his rushing volume and touchdown potential.
If the Steelers commit to running the ball against the Colts, Harris could have a productive day even without a significant receiving workload. However, in PPR leagues, Harris’s value is slightly lower due to Warren’s involvement in the passing game.
Harris is also a more reliable option in leagues with a flex position, as he offers a higher floor due to his consistent involvement in the offense.
While he may not have the ceiling of a top-tier running back, his ability to grind out yards and score touchdowns makes him a steady, if unspectacular, fantasy option.
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Projections and Final Verdict
So, is Najee Harris a good fantasy pick in Week 3? Based on his matchup, current role, and the assurances from the Steelers coaching staff, Harris remains a viable option, especially in standard scoring leagues.
While his ceiling may be somewhat capped due to the emergence of Jaylen Warren, Harris’s floor remains respectable enough to warrant a start in most formats.
Against a Colts defense that has been middle-of-the-pack against the run, Harris should have opportunities to produce, particularly if the Steelers commit to a balanced offensive game plan.
Additionally, the motivation of playing for a new contract could push Harris to deliver a breakout performance.
Here are some projected stats for Najee Harris in Week 3:
- Rushing yards: 65-75 yards
- Receptions: 2-3 catches
- Total yards: 80-90 total yards
- Touchdowns: 1 touchdown
These numbers make Harris a solid RB2 or flex option in most fantasy leagues. While he may not deliver a monster game, his workload and goal-line role should ensure a decent performance.
Fantasy managers should feel confident starting Harris but should temper expectations given the potential for Jaylen Warren to siphon off some opportunities.
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