In an interview with popular streamer Neon, the former Pittsburgh Steelers running back admitted that some players run straight to their phones, even at halftime, to check social media and see what people are saying about them during games.
"Some people run straight to their phones and check their things," Harris said. "See if someone posts something about them."
The Modern Reality
Harris clarified that he does not take part in the practice himself, and given his reputation, that tracks.
He has never played like a guy with any sort of ego and has been known throughout his career as being all about the team and winning over any personal accolades.
🚨🚨 Former #Steelers RB Najee Harris has admitted that multiple players literally run straight to their lockers the second the second quarter ends to check what fans, fantasy managers, and sports pages are posting about them online:
— NFL Rumors (@nflrums) June 30, 2026
“Some people run straight to their phones and…
Still, the admission is quite stunning to look at how deeply the social media age has penetrated the locker room, showing that some players listen to the outside noise during games, whether it is positive or negative.
In an era where fantasy managers, sports pages, and fans post about players in real time, the idea of athletes checking their phones between quarters to see the reaction is quite the snapshot of the current NFL culture.
Where Harris Stands Now
Harris remains a free agent as he continues his recovery from a torn Achilles suffered in Week 3 of the 2025 season, when he went down on a non-contact play in the second quarter of the Chargers' game against the Denver Broncos.
The 28-year-old visited the Las Vegas Raiders and Seattle Seahawks in March but was not offered a contract by either club.
Rams RB Najee Harris reveals to Neon that NFL players check social media at halftime to see what people are saying about them 👀
— FearBuck (@FearedBuck) June 28, 2026
(Via @clippedszn/N3on on Kick) pic.twitter.com/p5TCtQcTlK
His recovery has reportedly progressed well, with his agent Doug Hendrickson posting video of Harris sprinting on a treadmill just months after surgery.
Harris spent his first four seasons in Pittsburgh after being drafted 24th overall in 2021, topping 1,000 rushing yards in each of those campaigns, a feat unmatched in Steelers history to begin a career.
He signed a one-year deal worth just over $5 million with the Los Angeles Chargers last offseason but appeared in only three games, recording 37 yards on nine carries before the injury.
