The Steelers bounced back well from an early Russell Wilson pick-six, picking up the pieces with a quick touchdown drive to tie the game, but they lost one of the focal points of their offense in the process.
Najee Harris exited after a busy start to the game, which saw him earn five touches early in the first quarter. Harris already had 45 yards on four catches when he went over to the sideline for evaluation.
The Steelers were able to finish the drive with a touchdown by George Pickens, but any time missed by Harris is a concern for a Pittsburgh offense that still emphasizes the running game.
Here’s what you need to know about Harris’ injury and his status going forward.
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Najee Harris injury update
Harris went over to the sideline after the last play before Pickens’ first quarter touchdown, though it wasn’t immediately clear what was causing Harris discomfort.
The fourth-year running back appeared to slow down after hauling in his fourth catch of the day from Wilson and stayed on the sideline after going out of bounds.
Najee Harris #steelers
Appears to injure something on this catch, will keep an eye out for updates pic.twitter.com/V6HjHWjAQ1
— Tom Christ, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT (@FantasyInjuryT) December 1, 2024
Harris seemed to be in “quite a bit of pain” while working with trainers on the sideline, according to WPXI’s Shelby Cassesse.
While the Steelers didn’t immediately announce an injury designation for Harris, Cordarrelle Patterson received the first carry of Pittsburgh’s next offensive drive. Patterson and Jaylen Warren would step up as the Steelers’ top running back options if Harris wasn’t able to return.
This story will be updated.