The Pittsburgh Steelers made a surprising move this offseason by declining to pick up former first-round running back Najee Harris' fifth-year option. Many pundits thought it would be a no-brainer to guarantee Harris $6.79 million in 2025 and extend his contract. However, the organization decided it was in everyone's best interest to decline the option.
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Steelers RB Najee Harris leaps over Bengals defender.
Harris is now scheduled to become a free agent in 2025. Since joining the Steelers, he has been very reliable, not missing a game and rushing for over 1,000 yards in each of his three seasons. This achievement is even more impressive considering he played in an offense that was historically bad.
In 2024, Harris will be working with a new offense under Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith. Smith, eager to return to a strong ground-and-pound attack, aims to feature a punishing style of football spearheaded by Harris and Jaylen Warren.
Steelers General Manager Omar Khan joined The PM Team w/ Poni & Mueller on Thursday. During his time on the show, Khan was asked about Harris' future and why the organization declined his option.
"It was a business decision that we had to make by I think it was May 2nd. Najee is awesome to have around here. We love him as a player and a person. Just because we didn't pick up the option, doesn't exclude us from doing something with Najee for the long term.”
Khan expressed great admiration for Harris and hopes he remains a Steeler for his entire career.
"I'd love to say he had a long career in Pittsburgh. He really represents us well on the field and off the field. It was just one of those things that we had to make a decision on. We just felt right now that was the right decision for everyone. I love Najee and would love to have him here long term.”
Khan was asked how Harris reacted to the phone call informing him that the organization was declining his option. While Khan chose not to share specific details, he emphasized that Harris understands this decision doesn't mark the end of his time in Pittsburgh.
“I made a call to him, but out of respect for him, I will keep the conversation between the two of us. He knows just because we are going into this with one year left, it doesn’t prevent us from doing business long-term.”
The 2024 season sets Harris up for a potential career year as he will be operating in the best system he has had since entering the NFL. If he dominates during the season, his resume will be significantly enhanced for his upcoming free agency. The pressure is on Harris to have a massive year.
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Steelers' Najee Harris speaks to members of the Pittsburgh media.
Steelers' Najee Harris Is Playing For A Ton In 2024
Khan's comments were measured to navigate the question. For Harris, it seems likely that he will thrive regardless, as his situation in 2024 looks promising. If he has a career year, he will likely earn a more lucrative and longer-term deal. Conversely, if he has a poor season, his value will decrease, making the Steelers' decision on his future more intriguing.
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Steelers' Najee Harris getting ready to stiff arm a defender.
The running back position has become more replaceable in the minds of NFL organizations, and they were not comfortable committing guaranteed money to Harris at this stage in his career. The Steelers want to see him perform in a full season under Smith before offering any guaranteed money. Steelers fans will eagerly await Harris' comments during training camp. Harris has not spoke to the media since the 2023 season ended.
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