Former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris is nearing a return following his fireworks accident.
Former Pittsburgh Steelers running back and current Los Angeles Charger Najee Harris has been sidelined with an eye injury that he suffered in a firework explosion on the Fourth of July. However, he recently took a big step in his road to recovery.
Harris participated in drills with a football for the first time this training camp during Tuesday's practice, according to Kris Rhim of ESPN . He did do so off to the side with an athletic trainer, but it's still a good sign with the start of the 2025 season nearing.
The Chargers have not disclosed what exactly Harris' injury is, but his agent, Doug Hendrickson, was able to shed some light on the situation.
"Najee Harris was present at a 4th of July event where a fireworks mishap resulted in injuries to several attendees. Najee sustained a superficial eye injury during the incident, but is fully expected to be ready for the upcoming NFL season," Hendrickson stated .
Pittsburgh Steelers RB Najee Harris at practice on Wednesday, Sept 20, 2024. — Ed Thompson / Steelers Now
The NFL has encountered similar situations involving fireworks in the past. Most notably, when Jason Pierre-Paul lost multiple fingers on his hand in 2015. The injury didn't end his career as he played until 2023.
Los Angeles is surely hoping that's the case for Harris, who now looks to be nearing a return.
The Steelers selected Harris with their first-round pick (No. 24 overall) in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Alabama. He was a steady and strong contributor, rushing for at least 1,000 yards in each of his first four seasons, but his career overall underwhelmed compared to his draft position.
The 27-year-old appeared to take the first opportunity out of Pittsburgh that he could, which landed him in his home state of California.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now : Former Steelers RB Najee Harris Takes Big Step in Recovery
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