NajeeHarris

News: 7 days agoHarris rushed 16 times for 41 yards and brought in both targets for 13 yards in the Steelers' 24-19 loss to the Browns on Thursday night.

Spin: The Browns' defense came into the night with some extreme home/road splits against the run, and Cleveland's typically stout work against opposing ground attacks at Huntington Bank Field continued to Harris' detriment Thursday. The fourth-year pro was constantly stymied at or near the line of scrimmage, with his longest run going for a modest 11 yards. Harris' yardage total was his lowest since Week 4, but he should have a good opportunity to bounce back in a Week 13 road matchup against a more giving Bengals defense on Sunday, Dec. 1.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: A true volume grinder, Harris returns to Pittsburgh for his fourth season as the primary runner on early downs. Harris has totaled at least 255 carries and 1,000 rush yards for three straight seasons. However, Harris dipped to 11.4 fantasy points per game last season (RB26), and his receving totals continue to decline (career-low 29 receptions in 2023). A run-heavy approach from new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith is a bonus here, but with the expanding role for Jaylen Warren in the Steelers' backfield, Harris should be targeted as lower-tier flex only.