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<\/figure>\n Most folks may\u2019ve predicted Najee Harris\u2019 sophomore stoop. One take a look at the Steelers\u2019 payroll, offensive line depth, or quarterback scenario ought to\u2019ve been sufficient for anybody to foresee backfield struggles for the 2021 first-round pick of Alabama. Still, a number of believed his function position and pass-catching potential \u2014 basically, his sheer quantity of labor \u2014 would make up for any deficiency. After all, he’s immensely proficient.<\/p>\n Eight weeks into the season and now, that final assertion is seeming much less and fewer true. Harris is presently averaging 3.3 yards per carry, 45.1 yards per recreation, three receptions per recreation, and 4.7 yards per reception. All of these figures are down from final 12 months. He\u2019s not reaching the tip zone as typically. He\u2019s receiving far fewer targets, and even when he does get alternatives, he doesn\u2019t go the attention take a look at. Steelers followers have shaken their heads and fists too many occasions watching Harris run East to West as a substitute of North to South. He hasn\u2019t proven endurance working up the center. He hasn\u2019t proven good play. He\u2019s simply been unhealthy.<\/p>\n That mentioned, all of those struggles are simply that, struggles \u2014 meant to be overcome. Sophomore slumps are well-documented, and contemplating Harris spent the primary half of this season coping with a nagging ankle damage<\/a><\/span>, there\u2019s cause to be optimistic for a late-year push or third-year resurgence. More seemingly although, is that Harris is not going to get well from these struggles.<\/p>\n We\u2019ve truly seen this profession arc earlier than.<\/p>\n