Neil PondUpdated on: October 14, 2024 7:43 am GMT
When it comes to fantasy football, selecting the right running back can make or break your season. Najee Harris of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Breece Hall of the New York Jets are two of the most talked-about names entering the 2023 fantasy season. But who truly deserves the top spot as the premier running back? In this article, we will delve into their careers, skills, and potential for the upcoming season, helping you determine who might be the better choice for your fantasy lineup.
An Overview of Najee Harris
Najee Harris turned heads when he was drafted in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Standing 6’2″ and weighing 230 pounds, Harris quickly established himself as a powerful runner and a versatile playmaker.
Career Highlights
- College Success: Najee played college football at Alabama, where he rushed for over 3,800 yards and scored 46 touchdowns.
- Rookie Season: In his first year with the Steelers, Harris ran for 1,200 yards, adding 74 receptions for 467 yards and 10 total touchdowns.
- 2022 Season Performance: Although he faced injury issues, Harris managed to finish the season with over 1,100 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns.
Strengths and Skills
Najee’s skill set is impressive. Some key aspects include:
- Power Running: Known for his ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact.
- Receiving Ability: His hands and route-running make him a favored target in the passing game.
- Durability: Harris has shown the ability to handle a heavy workload, making him reliable for fantasy owners.
Unpacking Breece Hall’s Talent
On the other side of the field, Breece Hall has been making waves since being drafted by the New York Jets in 2022. The former Iowa State standout made an immediate impact in the NFL, showcasing his blend of speed and agility.
Career Highlights
- College Standout: Hall rushed for over 3,000 yards and scored 56 touchdowns during his collegiate career at Iowa State.
- Impressive Rookie Season: In 2022, Hall rushed for 463 yards and 4 touchdowns in just 7 games before suffering a knee injury.
- come back Potential: As he heads into 2023, Hall has been praised for his recovery and is aiming for a triumphant return.
Strengths and Skills
Breece Hall’s abilities also stand out:
- Speed and Agility: Hall possesses breakaway speed that makes him a threat to score on any play.
- Versatility: He can contribute both in the rushing and receiving games.
- Physical Running Style: Despite being lighter than Harris, Hall brings a physical edge to his running.
Comparing 2023 Projections
When analyzing Najee Harris and Breece Hall for the upcoming season, several indicators help forecast their potential outcomes.
Health and Recovery
- Najee Harris: He has dealt with minor injuries but has generally proven to be durable.
- Breece Hall: Coming back from a torn ACL raises questions. How quickly will he regain his form?
Offensive Schemes
- Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers rely heavily on their running game, which means Harris will see plenty of touches.
- New York Jets: With a revamped offense and quarterback position, Hall’s involvement is expected to increase, especially in a system that favors versatile backs.
Projected Stats for 2023
Here’s a breakdown of projected stats for both players in 2023:
| Player | Rushing Yards | Touchdowns | Receptions | Receiving Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Najee Harris | 1,300 | 10 | 60 | 500 |
| Breece Hall | 1,100 | 8 | 40 | 300 |
Fantasy Football Impact
Choosing between Harris and Hall for your fantasy team weighs heavily on their projected outcomes and your strategy.
Value in Drafts
- Najee Harris: Given his consistent workload and established role, Harris is likely to be drafted in the early rounds. In standard scoring, he’s a safe bet due to his rushing ability.
- Breece Hall: While his potential return makes him a valuable pick, the uncertainty about his recovery may push him into the mid-round range. However, his high upside as a dual-threat should not be overlooked.
Scoring Potential
- Najee Harris: His ability to find the end zone makes him a reliable choice in leagues that reward touchdowns heavily.
- Breece Hall: While he may have a slower start, if he regains his rookie form, he could lead to major fantasy points mid to late season.
Final Analysis: Who to Choose?
The decision between Najee Harris and Breece Hall ultimately depends on your team needs and draft positioning.
- For Stability: If you’re seeking a running back who’s proven and typically maintains a high volume of touches, Najee Harris is your guy. He should be a top choice for teams needing consistency.
- For Long-Term Upside: If you’re willing to take a risk for potential high rewards, Breece Hall is a fantastic option late in drafts. If he returns to form quickly, he could outperform expectations.
Both players have special skills that can really help your fantasy team. Knowing what they are good at, how healthy they are, and how they fit in with their teammates will help you make a smart choice for your fantasy lineup. Good luck with your picks!
