Najee Harris contemplated transferring from Alabama after 2017 season

Najee Harris came to Alabama as the second-ranked running back in the class of 2017 after dominating California high school football.

Most players with his talent and resume would immediately make an impact on their college team, but at Alabama, Harris found himself behind a number of top running backs on Nick Saban's loaded roster.

Harris was forced to battle for playing time, finishing with just 61 carries for 370 yards - fourth on the Crimson Tide in both categories. The lack of action is something the 6-foot-2, 227-pounder hopes he doesn't have to deal with anymore.

"The only thing I can tell you is, I hope I'm on the field more," Harris told Ron Kroichick of the San Francisco Chronicle. "Last year was the worst feeling. That whole season was mentally challenging."

Harris admitted he contemplated transferring after the season, but decided against it, with the Crimson Tide offering the best path to the pro ranks. He wasn't the only star freshman to consider a transfer after a trying first season, as quarterback Tua Tagavailoa also admitted that it crossed his mind at one point.

Interestingly enough, the pair of first-year players ended up playing major roles in the Crimson Tide's national championship win over Georgia.

Harris is expected to have a larger impact in the Crimson Tide offense for his second season on campus. If his production in the second half of the national title game is any indication, don't be shocked if he piles up the yardage during his sophomore campaign.