SportStories, Ep. 6 | Everybody Loves Najee

Chace Bryson

4 years ago

Najee Harris, Alabama’s star running back for the past two years, will hear his name read from the podium on Day 1 or 2 of the 2021 NFL Draft. Celebration and excitement from sports fans throughout the Bay Area is sure to follow. That’s because Harris, in addition to being one of the most prolific high school running backs in NorCal history during his four years at Antioch, was also one of the most genuine and selfless.

Teammates loved him. Opponents and rivals admired him. Nobody could stop him.

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He was named CalHiSports.com’s Mr. State Football as a junior. He was the No. 1 recruit in the country his senior year as some of the most famous collegiate coaches in the nation made Antioch a frequent stop. Harris chose Alabama and spent his first two years in backup duty before becoming the feature back as a junior. As a senior, he led the Crimson Tide to a national championship as the nation’s leading scorer. He had three touchdowns in the title game.

Despite a childhood filled with hardships that included several moves and homeless shelters, Harris and his family found firm footing in Antioch. And he made the most of it.

For this episode, we spoke to Najee’s offensive coordinator at Antioch, a former Panthers teammate, a current San Jose State linebacker who lined up against him for three years in high school, his personal trainer of nine years, and CalHiSports.com editor and state prep sports historian, Mark Tennis.

What will it mean when the name Najee Harris is announced at the NFL draft? These guys have some thoughts. Their stories and memories might just make you a fan too.

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