Pittsburgh Steelers' promising running back, Najee Harris has faced a series of early-season struggles that have left fans and pundits alike wondering what the future holds for the highly anticipated talent. Enter former Steelers offensive lineman Ramon Foster, a seasoned veteran who knows the ins and outs of the game. Foster's unique perspective sheds light on how Harris can overcome his offensive woes and achieve his true potential in the NFL.
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Steelers' Ramon Foster during a game.
The Steelers' Need For Tight Inside Zone Runs And A Lead Blocker
Foster had some insight on his podcast, The Ramon Foster Show via DK Pittsburgh Sports for how the Steelers could make life easier for Harris. This insight underscores the importance of creating plays that allow Harris to navigate through tight inside lanes with the assistance of a lead blocker. Such an approach can provide Harris with more structured running lanes and the opportunity to leverage his powerful running style to its full potential.
"I do think Najee needs tight inside zone runs and a blocker in front of him."
Inside zone runs, complemented by a fullback or an H-back as a lead blocker, can serve to not only create more favorable running lanes, but also facilitate a smoother transition into the open field. This strategic adjustment can help Harris better capitalize on his strengths and improve the overall efficiency of the Steelers' ground game.
Patience Is A Virtue: Allowing Plays To Develop
Foster's second observation revolves around the idea that Harris is getting to the line of scrimmage too quickly. Foster advises that Harris needs to take an additional quarter of a second to allow the play to develop fully. This adjustment could prove crucial in rectifying the offensive struggles that have resulted from Harris colliding with the back of the offensive line.
In the NFL, split-second decisions can be the difference between a minimal gain and a significant play. Letting the offensive line establish their blocks and the running lanes to take shape is essential for a running back's success. By exercising patience and providing plays with more time to develop, Harris can identify the correct gaps and exploit the defense more effectively.
"You don't automatically push guys off the line of scrimmage in the NFL," said Foster.
Harris must continue to understand that the NFL is a league of unparalleled competition, and defenders are not easily displaced from their positions.
Peter Diana / Post-Gazette
Former Pittsburgh Steelers running back, Le'Veon Bell was one of the best players in the NFL at securing yards after the catch.
For Harris, this realization means adapting his playing style to navigate the complexities of NFL defenses. This adaptation may entail a combination of patience (watching tape from Le'Veon Bell's days as a Steeler), improved vision, and heightened situational awareness. These qualities can help Harris make better decisions on the field and maximize his effectiveness.
Building on his previous point, Foster underscores the importance of giving plays time to develop.
"You got to give the play time to breathe for a second."
According to Foster, Harris's struggles stem from his habit of reaching the line of scrimmage faster than the blocking schemes are opening up. In the NFL, this timing is everything, and Harris needs to exercise more patience.
By allowing blocks to set up, Harris can avoid the unfortunate outcome of running into a congested line of scrimmage and capitalize on the developing holes and gaps. This adjustment could greatly enhance his impact on the field.
Introducing Gap Scheme Counters
Foster's final piece of advice suggests incorporating gap scheme counters into the playbook to provide Harris with more breathing room. These plays can be designed to create additional gaps in the defensive front, allowing Harris to identify and exploit open running lanes. Gap scheme counters can provide a dynamic and strategic element to the Steelers' rushing game, giving Harris the opportunity to break free and make significant gains.
-544x306.jpg "Steelers Najee Harris")
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter / x: @jsko_photo)
Steelers QB Kenny Pickett isn't the only one with big expectations in 2023, as RB Najee Harris will be expected to step up with an improved offensive line.
With the wisdom of veterans like Foster and a willingness to adapt, Harris has the potential to overcome these challenges and emerge as a dynamic force in the Steelers' backfield. By implementing tight inside zone runs, emphasizing patience, acknowledging the formidable nature of NFL defenses, and giving plays the necessary time to develop, Harris can unlock his full potential.
What do you think of Foster's comments? Comment below!
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