JuJu Smith-Schuster Wants Steelers to Draft Alabama RB Najee Harris

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster joined Pro Football Hall of Famer Michael Irvin on his podcast, sharing who he wants the team to draft later this month.

Smith-Schuster’s preference is in line with much of Steeler Nation, as the wideout said he wants the team to take Alabama running back Najee Harris in the first round.

“Najee Harris, one of the best running backs out there that could fit in our caliber, our team,” Smith-Schuster said. “And you know, if we had him, it would be cool.”

Harris had an outstanding senior campaign in Tuscaloosa, rushing for 1,466 yards and 26 touchdowns. He also improved his stock as a receiver, catching 43 passes for 425 yards and four more scores in 2020.

Not only did Harris win the National Championships with the Crimson Tide in January, he was also named a unanimous All-American and awarded the Doak Walker Award as the nation’s top running back.

Harris would certainly provide an immediate boost to a Steelers rushing attack that was the NFL’s worst last season.

If Harris is already gone at No. 24, Smith-Schuster added he would also be fine with the team addressing a need along the offensive line.

“And also, I think O-linemen, too,” he said. “I think, you know, with some guys that we don’t have back, you know, coming back with Ben. Maurkice Pouncey, one of the dudes that was Ben’s guy since day one. You know, have the center to be a great fit for us.”

Ultimately, Smith-Schuster selfishly just wants the team to take an offensive player in the first round.

“Man, Pittsburgh’s known to draft a defensive player in the first round always,” he said. “Hopefully we get someone on offense to help us out.”

Pittsburgh has not selected an offensive player in the first round of the NFL Draft since taking guard David DeCastro out of Stanford in 2012.