NFL running back Najee Harris sustained injuries in a fireworks accident shortly after midnight on July 5 in Antioch, California. Following the incident, Harris was initially treated at John Muir Hospital before being moved to Stanford Hospital, though the exact nature and extent of his injuries have not been disclosed. This unexpected event has generated considerable concern among fans and within the football community.
Public Response Highlights Widespread Shock and Comparisons
Fans on social media expressed disbelief and worry over Harris’s situation. Many referenced a similar past injury suffered by former New York Giants linebacker Jason Pierre-Paul, who lost part of his fingers in a 4th of July fireworks accident. One fan remarked,
“They gotta start putting fireworks clauses in contracts,”
while another added,
“Musta been a firecracker of an event.”
Comments also reflected frustration, such as
“These dudes just don’t learn man it’s crazy,”
and some lighthearted reactions appeared, including, “Who needs 10 fingers anyway?” and
“Steelers won by letting this man walk.”
Authorities confirmed that the explosion was caused by fireworks and the Antioch Police Department is actively investigating the case.
Career Context: From Steelers to Chargers and What’s Next for Harris
Najee Harris signed a one-year, $9.25 million contract with the Los Angeles Chargers on March 10, following three seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Known for his physical running style, Harris is expected to be an essential part of head coach Jim Harbaugh’s offensive strategy in L.A. His move came after the Steelers declined his fifth-year option, signaling a shift in their roster priorities.
Harris Reflects on Challenges During Steelers Tenure
In a recent interview with KCal News, Harris candidly discussed the turbulent period he experienced with Pittsburgh, highlighting the difficulties the team faced after Ben Roethlisberger retired. He described a disorganized offense lacking clear direction or identity, which left him searching for leadership mostly from the defensive side.
“It was just a team where we lost Ben, we lost the O-line, we just didn’t know anything on offense really, we didn’t have any identity.” —Najee Harris, NFL Running Back
“So, through my years, I’ve learned a lot that only I learned first-hand. And I feel like [in L.A.], like we’ve got a lot of veterans that I can learn even more stuff from, even at the quarterback position, and the O-line position.” —Najee Harris, NFL Running Back
Despite his individual success, including multiple 1,000-yard rushing seasons and a Pro Bowl appearance in 2021, Harris felt unsettled amid the Steelers’ organizational changes. His relationship with Jim Harbaugh influenced his decision to join the Chargers, where he anticipates growing under veteran leadership and improving his skills further.
Fireworks Injury Adds Uncertainty Ahead of Upcoming Season
The fireworks-related injury to Najee Harris casts doubt over his availability for the upcoming NFL season, raising concerns for both the player and the Chargers’ offense. While details remain limited, the incident serves as a reminder of the risks athletes face off the field and how unexpected events can impact their careers. The ongoing investigation by Antioch Police aims to clarify the circumstances surrounding the explosion, while fans and teammates watch closely for updates on Harris’s recovery.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened to Najee Harris?
A. LOS ANGELES — Chargers running back Najee Harris hurt his eye during a fireworks accident at a July Fourth event. His agent, Doug Hendrickson, shared this with ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Thursday. Hendrickson described the eye injury as “superficial,” and mentioned Harris should be ready for the next NFL season.
Q. How did Najee Harris get injured?
A. Harris got hurt during a non-contact play in the first quarter of the AFC North game. He managed to leave the field by himself but was checked by medical staff on the sidelines. Here’s the latest update on Harris’ injury and his chances of continuing in Sunday’s game.