Steelers RB Najee Harris Exits Game Against Denver Late in 4th Quarter

PITTSBURGH – Najee Harris’ big day ends early, as the Steelers rookie running back leaves Pittsburgh’s game against Denver with about 3 minutes left in the fourth quarter.

Harris was announced as out with cramps. It appeared as if Harris was dealing with cramp issues most of the second half. He could be seen being stretched out by the Steelers medical staff on the sidelines.

Despite the early exit, Harris finished with his first 100+ rushing day of his young NFL career. Harris registered 122 yards on 23 carries for an average of 5.3 yards per carry. He also caught a couple passes for 20 yards, which included a big 14-yard reception.

Prior to his performance against a Denver defense that had yet to allow any 100 yard rushers all season, Harris’ NFL best was 62 yards in the loss to Green Bay.

Harris’ big day is the first 100-yard rushing performance by a Steelers running back since James Conner had 101 in a Week 6 win over the Cleveland Browns a season ago.

The last Pittsburgh rookie to rush for 100 yards in a game was Jaylen Samuels, who ran for 142 against the New England Patriots on Dec. 16, 2018.

Harris was selected with the 24th-overall selection in the 2021 NFL Draft. He entered Sunday’s game with 185 rushing yards and a score. He had also caught 26 passes for 178 yards and a touchdown.