2021 Senior Bowl: 3 First Round Caliber Players to Watch For

2. Najee Harris (running back) – Alabama

Running backs selected in the first round are rare to come by but they are not impossible to find. Usually, a running back whose talent is worthy to be selected in the first round of the NFL Draft either is a reliable player in the running and passing game or has the attributes of an elite rusher.

The Alabama Crimson Tide offense was one of the most dynamic and explosive offenses in the history of College Football. While the passing game is highly praised, the rushing game is not underpraised. Alabama running back Najee Harris is a prospect whose NFL Draft has been rising significantly late this season.

This season, the Doak Walker Award winner rushed for 1,466 yards and 26 touchdowns on 251 carries. He also caught 43 receptions for 425 yards and four touchdowns. Harris finishes his stellar career at Alabama by rushing for 3,843 yards and 46 touchdowns on 638 carries as well as catching 80 receptions for 781 yards and 11 touchdowns. Harris became Alabama’s all-time leader in total touchdowns, rushing touchdowns, and rushing yards.

Harris is a one-of-a-kind running back who has elite breakout speed, toughness to keep running after first contact, a great motor, superior athleticism to make cuts and unbelievable hurdles, and patience to wait for his offensive line to make the blocks. He is also a key reliable player in the passing game as a blocker in the backfield or as an extra receiver.

Harris has moved himself up the NFL Draft board significantly as he passed Clemson running back Travis Etienne as the top player in his position by many analysts. He will be participating in the Senior Bowl for the Miami Dolphins, who have the 18th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. A great Senior Bowl week would put Harris permanently on many team’s radars.