Najee Harris Opens Up About Mike Tomlin's Honest Advice
In a recent episode of Marshawn Lynch’s Get Got podcast, former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris shared a revealing conversation he had with legendary head coach Mike Tomlin. The discussion, which took place as Harris was preparing for free agency in 2025, offers a glimpse into the relationship between the two and Tomlin's perspective on Harris' time with the Steelers.
A Candid Conversation: Tomlin's 'Fatherly' Advice
Harris described the exchange as deeply meaningful. "We was chopping it up for like 10, 20 minutes about some random stuff," Harris recalled. "And then, we was like, alright, we gotta talk about business now." Tomlin reportedly began by framing the conversation in a personal context, telling Harris, "I always talk to you not as if you are a player, but as if you are my son." This set the stage for what Harris described as a surprisingly frank assessment.
"I Would Tell You Not To Come Back Here"
Tomlin's words, delivered with the affection of a father, were direct and left no room for misinterpretation. According to Harris, Tomlin stated, "if you was my son, I would tell you not to come back here." Harris responded simply, "alright bet," indicating he understood and respected the sentiment, despite the timing. He clarified, "It wasn’t no hard feelings or nothing like that." This exchange highlights a unique dynamic between a coach and player, often characterized by mutual respect even amidst professional transitions.
Respect Amidst Departure
Mike Tomlin is widely regarded throughout the NFL as a "players' coach," known for building strong relationships with his athletes. Harris' comments underscore this reputation, revealing a deep respect for Tomlin's honesty and mentorship. Even though both men have since moved on from the Steelers—Tomlin retiring after the 2025 season and Harris leaving via free agency—their connection remains evident.
Harris had previously expressed mixed feelings about his departure from Pittsburgh. He had made comments suggesting the Chargers' facilities were superior and hinted that the Steelers hadn't fully utilized his skill set. However, this recent revelation about Tomlin's advice suggests a more nuanced and ultimately respectful relationship, emphasizing personal growth over organizational critiques.
A Challenging Journey for Najee Harris
Harris' NFL journey since leaving Pittsburgh has been marked by significant challenges. His first season with the Los Angeles Chargers was fraught with adversity. A fireworks accident prior to training camp in 2025 resulted in an eye injury, sidelining him for a portion of the preseason and the start of the regular season.
Returning to the field, Harris seemed poised to contribute, but his bad luck persisted. In Week 3 of the 2025 season, he suffered a devastating Achilles tendon tear, forcing him out for the remainder of the year. These injuries underscore the unpredictable nature of professional sports and the physical toll they can exact on athletes.
Legacy and Impact
Despite the ups and downs, Harris' career thus far, particularly his four seasons in Pittsburgh, have cemented his place as a notable running back in the league. His ability to consistently surpass the 1,000-yard rushing mark during his time with the Steelers demonstrated his on-field talent. However, the narrative around his tenure often included discussions about meeting fan expectations and fitting into the team's offensive scheme.
Tomlin's advice, framed within the context of a father-son conversation, adds a layer of emotional depth to Harris' departure. It speaks to the coach's role not just in winning games, but in guiding the personal and professional development of his players, even after their time together concludes. Harris' comments serve as a reminder of the lasting impact coaches like Tomlin have on the athletes they mentor.
The Path Forward
As both Harris and Tomlin move forward in their respective paths—Harris potentially recovering and seeking his next opportunity in the NFL, and Tomlin concluding his remarkable tenure in Pittsburgh—their conversation remains a testament to the complex relationships that define professional football. It’s a story of honesty, respect, and the inevitable transitions that shape careers in the NFL.
Harris' willingness to share this candid moment with Tomlin provides fans and analysts alike with a deeper understanding of the behind-the-scenes dynamics that influence player decisions and team dynamics. In an era where player movement is frequent and contracts are often short-lived, such stories highlight the human element that underpins the high-stakes world of professional sports.
