Najee Harris and Jack Conklin: Are Their Starting Days Numbered?
The NFL preseason games have begun and as a result, speculations arise on the possible alterations that may be made on the rosters or the lineup.
Some big-Name skaters are currently unpredictable, including Najee Harris, the Steelers’ rushing back, and the team’s offensive lineman, Jack Conklin. Both players end up on the firing line as the team seeks to upgrade to become more competitive on the field.
Najee Harris: A Running Back Under Pressure
Now it is highly questionable whether Najee Harris was one of the defining Steelers’ offense players as he used to be. The team’s decision to turn down his fifth-year option pointed to such a change of strategy. This coupled with the youthful and immensely talented running backs on the roster poses a threat to Harris where he is likely to face competition for the relevant playing time.
Factors impacting Harris' role:
- Decline of fifth-year option
- Intense competition from young and fresh running backs
- Offensive scheme changes
- Injury history
However, Harris still shows as a reliable back, the Steelers still might decide on balancing the workload better in order to optimize the offence. Another related advantage was that likely a decreased level of work would help maintain his life span.
Jack Conklin: Change in the Formation of the Offensive Line
Jack Conklin a seasoned veteran has been solid figure on the Steelers’ offense line. Nevertheless, he has also been prone to injuries, and his lackluster performance has brought into question his reliability as a starting player. Some strategies that the team might consider could be to look to strengthen the team by seeking for better players to be inserted into the offensivr lines in order to afford the quarterback enhanced protection.
Factors impacting Conklin's role:
- Injury history
- Performance inconsistencies
- Rise of young numbers in the offence line
- The general strategy of the Team’s Offense Line
Conklin has leadership, and experience and could be of benefit, but he needs to help the Steelers focus on protecting the quarterback and increasing the efficiency of the offense.
Effect on the Steelers
With Harris and Conklin out from the list of starters there can be a lot of consequences for the Steelers’ offense. Harris’ missed games would likely lead to a redistribution of carries, and the change at right tackle could affect pass protection and run blocking.
There must be consideration from the Steelers’ side about the best approach to ensure they improve the attack prowess on the field. Gradually nurturing young talent and at the same time having experienced players on the team will be very essential.
Conclusion
The NFL is a dynamic league where player roles can change rapidly. Najee Harris and Jack Conklin, once considered key contributors, now face uncertain futures. As training camp progresses, the Steelers will make critical decisions that will shape their offensive identity for the upcoming season and beyond. Fans will be watching closely to see how these situations unfold.
