Mike Tomlin gives injury update, status of Najee Harris after Monday's practice

Pittsburgh was forced to go through some offensive changes this offseason but one player will remain consistent. After a stellar rookie season, running back Najee Harris is expected to grow into a star for the Steelers. However, there were some difficulties during Monday’s practice, as the second year back prepares for the 2022 season.

Head coach Mike Tomlin announced Harris was not able to finish practice, citing a minor foot injury. Tomlin said somebody stepped on Harris and there was not much more to it. Based on his tone, the running back is not expected to miss any practice in the immediate future.

“Najee wasn’t able to finish (practice),” Tomlin said. “Somebody stepped on his foot but it should not be a major deal.”

While Tomlin downplayed the significance of the injury, the head coach was asked if there would have to be an evaluation when it came to his participation. Tomlin continued to say it would not be a big deal, having some fun with his answer by dismissing the idea Harris would want to limit himself in practice.

“Somebody stepped on him,” Tomlin sarcastically said.

Even as a rookie, Harris was one of the top offensive performers for Pittsburgh last season. He finished the season with exactly 1,200 yards and seven touchdowns on 307 attempts. Harris is used to the heavy workload, being the main back for Alabama over his final two seasons in college. Now with a fresh quarterback in town, he will become even more important to Tomlin.

Najee Harris not the only Steelers running back with injury problems

Tomlin discussed other injuries within the organization, only naming one other player. Unfortunately, it was also a running back in Jeremy McNichols. He said the third-year player is getting his shoulder evaluated and was not able to practice on Monday.

“Jeremy McNichols is getting his shoulder evaluated,” said Tomlin. “He wasn’t able to participate today. Other than that, really excited to be in this environment. Continue with this growth process and keep snapping that ball and watching them grow individually and collectively.”

Luckily, both Harris and McNichols will have some time to get healthy before the Steelers’ season officially kicks off. Aug. 13 is the date of Pittsburgh’s first preseason game, while the regular season will get underway on Sept. 11 against the Cincinnati Bengals. Even with a foot or shoulder problem, both running backs are expected to be fine.