Buffalo Bills 2021 NFL Draft Prospect to Know: RB Najee Harris

The Buffalo Bills have not selected a running back in the first round of an NFL Draft since 2010 when they selected C.J. Spiller. That is a streak that could end this year as running back is potentially a position they could target in the first round, especially if Najee Harris is still on the board when they are on the clock. Let’s take a closer look at Najee Harris and how he might with the Buffalo Bills.

Measurables/Stats

Height: 6’1″

Weight: 232 pounds

Arms: 33.25″

Hands: 10.25″

Najee Harris played four seasons for the University of Alabama and over 51 games had 638 carries and 3,843 rushing yards with 46 total rushing touchdowns along with 80 receptions for 781 receiving yards and 11 receiving touchdowns.

There is no question that this past year was by far his best as he had 1,891 yards from scrimmage with 30 total touchdowns.

NFL.com Scouting Report by Lance Zierlein

"Plus-sized runner who elevated his game and draft stock with a well-rounded performance in 2020. Harris showed improved short-area creativity and elusiveness to go with his trademark physicality. Creates additional yardage with both wiggle and power, but he lacks desired top gear to change games in a flash. He handled a heavier lift in 2020, with almost 300 total touches in 13 games. Harris’ value as a third-down option out of the backfield and as a personal protector should not be underestimated after his performance in his senior year. His running style could shorten his career, but he’s a tough, three-down runner who can immediately upgrade a running game."

Highlights

How he fits with the Buffalo Bills

In my opinion, Najee Harris is the best running back in this draft class and it isn’t particularly close. The former Crimson Tide running back can do essentially anything a team would want from their running back.

He is a hard-nosed runner that isn’t afraid of contact and can pick up tough yards on the inside. However, he also has speed and elusiveness on the outside to make defenders miss. When these traits are combined with his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, there isn’t really much of a reason to take him off the field.

If the Buffalo Bills were to add Najee Harris he would vault to the top of the depth chart and become the team’s featured back. It would make sense that Harris would see somewhere close to 70% of the work while Zack Moss and Devin Singletary would be more in complementary roles in the backfield.