Alabama Football: 5 potential breakout stars for 2017

Harris joins a very crowded backfield including Junior standouts Bo Scarborough and Damien Harris. Judging by his early performance in Alabama’s Spring Game, Najee could be in line to make an immediate impact. In the “A-Game” Harris wowed spectators with his athleticism. He leaped over safety Hootie Jones, who stands 6-foot-2, and picked up an impressive gain.

Alabama loves bigger running backs, from Mark Ingram to Derek Henry and now starter Bo Scarborough who checks in at 6-foot-2 and 235 pounds. Najee Harris is almost identical in stature to Scarborough.

With the elite competition in the backfield it may be some time for Harris to make an impact. Damien Harris is the change of pace back who will get a lot of snaps to compliment Scarborough. Alabama also has sophomore running back Joshua Jacobs who impressed as a freshman and will likely see an increase in carries.

Scarborough is coming off a broken leg suffered in Alabama’s National Championship loss to Clemson but is considered an early Heisman Trophy favorite nonetheless. However the Tide may be a little more cautious this year with Scarborough, who in addition to the broken leg has suffered two significant knee injuries and a broken ankle since high school.

If Scarborough were to miss any time, or Damien Harris and Jacobs have a let down, Alabama has Najee Harris ready to step in and carry the load.