The consensus around the NFL is the Steelers will select Alabama running back Najee Harris in the first round, at least according to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport.
In a tweet Tuesday about this year's class of running backs, Rapoport wrote "most teams believe" Harris will be gone by No. 24. If he's not available, Rapoport says the Steelers could target Javonte Williams from UNC.
Pittsburgh finished with the worst rushing attack in football last season.
As the NFL Draft approaches, an increasing number of analysts are predicting the Steelers will pick Harris. Out of a sampling of 14 recent mock drafts, five went with Harris to Pittsburgh, including Peter King and Todd McShay.
Indeed, it seems like the Steelers' interest in Harris is one of the worst kept secrets leading into the draft. Last week, NFL Draft analyst Tony Pauline said Harris is Pittsburgh's "number one target."
Pro Football Focus is even dreaming how Harris would look alongside Ben Roethlisberger and his array of weapons.
Given the devaluation of running backs, there's an argument for the Steelers bypassing Harris — even if he's on the board. But Kevin Colbert dispelled that notion Monday in his press conference.
"I don't think you can ever underestimate the value of a quality player at any position, and running back is no different," he said. "I understand that the game has changed, it's a more horizontal game than it is a vertical game. … If you have a dynamic player at any position, that player should make a difference, and running back is no difference."
Harris is coming off two straight 1,500-yard campaigns, accumulating an eye-popping 1,891 yards and 30 touchdowns last season. If the Steelers are intent on improving their back field, Harris is clearly a top option.
