Najee Harris

Najee Harris is a professional NFL running back recognized for his journey from homelessness to the highest level of professional football. One of five children raised by a single mother, Harris spent part of his childhood in a homeless shelter before his family relocated to Antioch, California. He used these early life challenges as motivation, becoming a highly recruited high school football player and earning recognition as the top overall recruit in his class by multiple scouting services.

Harris played college football at the University of Alabama, where he set program records for career rushing yards and touchdowns. He was a member of two Alabama national championship teams and received the Doak Walker Award and unanimous All-American honors. Harris was also named the SEC Championship Game MVP during his collegiate career.

The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Harris in the first round of the NFL Draft, making him the first running back chosen that year. In his rookie season, Harris surpassed 1,200 rushing yards and scored seven rushing touchdowns, while also contributing 74 receptions for 467 yards and three receiving touchdowns. He earned a Pro Bowl selection and became a central figure in Pittsburgh's offense, achieving four consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons. Known for his physicality, versatility, and ball security, Harris maintained a low fumble rate throughout his tenure with the Steelers. He later joined the Los Angeles Chargers before signing with the New York Giants.

Off the field, Harris is active in community outreach and philanthropy. He watched the NFL Draft from a Richmond, California, homeless shelter where he once lived and later established Da' Bigger Picture Foundation, a nonprofit organization supporting families affected by homelessness and hunger. The foundation offers scholarship opportunities, youth mentorship programs, and skill-building workshops. Harris frequently shares his personal experiences to raise awareness about homelessness and inspire others facing adversity, establishing himself as a prominent advocate for social impact within the sports community.