NFL Best Ball Spotlight: Is Najee Harris a Top Value Running Back in 2023?
NFL Best Ball drafters seem to be low on Najee Harris after two inefficient seasons to start his career. At his current ADP of 37.5, is Najee Harris a running back we should target as a value?
Let’s dive in!
Najee Harris in NFL Best Ball
Najee Harris had a solid sophomore season in 2022, accumulating 272 rushing attempts, 1,034 rushing yards, 53 targets, 229 receiving yards, and 10 total touchdowns. The Pittsburgh Steelers’ offense relied heavily on Harris last season, as evidenced by his 50%+ market share. The team clearly trusts him as their workhorse back, and his volume is a significant factor in his fantasy value. However, the question arises regarding his efficiency. Despite the high volume, Harris has averaged under 4 yards per carry in back-to-back seasons. This inefficiency raises concerns about his ability to produce elite results and maintain his bell-cow role moving forward.
In terms of the quarterback situation, Kenny Pickett, entering his sophomore season, has shown positive development in camp according to reports. For Harris to be a value in fantasy, Pickett needs to at least be serviceable. The Steelers’ passing game will play a crucial role in creating opportunities for Harris, as a strong aerial attack can open up running lanes and provide him with valuable check-down options.
One positive note is that Harris is reportedly healthy coming into the 2023 season after dealing with a foot injury in 2022. This bodes well for his prospects, as being injury-free should allow him to showcase his skills and potentially improve his efficiency. However, you have to be at least a bit concerned that his injury history will continue to be a pest going forward.
In best ball formats, Harris’s high volume and involvement in both the rushing and passing game make him an intriguing option. His ability to handle a heavy workload, coupled with his goal-line opportunities, increases his potential to deliver big fantasy performances. However, his lack of efficiency remains a concern, as it raises questions about his long-term sustainability as a bell-cow back.
Considering Harris’s current ADP, he presents a reasonable value for fantasy owners. As the focal point of the Steelers’ offense, he should continue to receive ample opportunities to produce fantasy points. If he can improve his efficiency or compensate for it with increased touchdown production, he has the potential to exceed expectations and provide significant value for best ball teams. If you think HArris can get to the 4.5 yards per carry mark, he’s a high upside bet to make.
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