Nick Saban discusses where Alabama RB Najee Harris needs to improve to earn more playing time

Najee Harris was a 5-star commitment to Alabama in the 2017 recruiting class, but due to the depth the Crimson Tide had at the position last year, he only got 61 carries.

Those 61 carries went for 370 yards and three touchdowns, so he did have a good freshman season, but heading into 2018, expectations are higher for the elusive back.

During Saturday’s A-Day spring game, coach Nick Saban explained that the Tide need Harris to improve on the plays where he doesn’t get the ball, meaning pass blocking primarily:

On ESPN, Nick Saban just pointed out the coaches are trying to get talented RB Najee Harris to play better when he DOESN'T have the ball, meaning he needs to improve on his pass blocking/protection, which is vital at Alabama.

— Alex Byington (@abyingtonTD) April 21, 2018

Harris is still young, but this will be a key year for him. He could be the Tide’s No. 2 option behind returning starter Damien Harris, but he has some work to do to earn that spot.

There’s no denying his talent with the ball in his hands, but you have to be able to do more to be a star running back in the SEC>