The Pittsburgh Steelers organization made a surprising decision not to pick up Najee Harris' fifth-year option. If they had exercised the option, Harris would have been guaranteed $6.79 million for the 2025 season. Instead, this decision will make him a free agent after the 2024 season.
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Steelers running back Najee Harris sits with his head down during game.
Much has been said about Harris' personality. Steelers insider Mark Kaboly expressed concerns about how Harris will react to not having his option picked up, describing Harris as unpredictable and mysterious. At times, Harris can be snappy with the media, while on other occasions, he is very kind. His unique personality has made fans eager to hear from him.
As the Steelers' minicamp wrapped up, pundits have been sharing their biggest takeaways from the offseason. Many Steelers fans are curious about Harris' attitude about the situation. However, Steelers insider Brian Batko reported that Running Backs Coach Eddie Faulkner has not noticed any changes in Harris' demeanor.
“Najee’s been totally fine; you haven’t gotten anything different whatsoever.”
Batko also shared his personal observations on Harris' performance throughout the spring. He noted that Harris appeared as a veteran presence in the room, eager to lead the team during optional workouts.
“His enthusiasm was on display several days throughout the spring, leading drills for the running backs as their unquestioned vocal veteran and making his presence felt at optional workouts, despite his contractual uncertainty beyond this year.”
Harris chose to sit out the mandatory minicamp portion of the offseason. Batko provided additional insight into Harris' decision to skip minicamp.
“But Harris was not as active for the mandatory minicamp portion of the offseason this week, with Mike Tomlin excusing his absence the first day for a prior appointment and acknowledging Wednesday that Harris didn’t take any snaps.”
Harris has been avoiding the media all offseason and has not spoken publicly since the end of the 2023 season.
“Harris himself declined to do any interviews throughout OTAs and minicamp, so Steeler Nation — if the collective is curious — remains waiting for his thoughts on his fifth-year option being declined, [and the] installation of Arthur Smith’s offense and the new quarterbacks.”
Harris will finally speak to the media when training camp begins. The 2024 season promises to be an intriguing one for him. New Steelers Offensive Coordinator, Arthur Smith, eager to recapture the success he had with the Tennessee Titans, is expected to implement a heavy ground-and-pound rushing attack.
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Former Titans OC Arthur Smith laughs with RB Derrick Henry.
Harris and Jaylen Warren are poised to shoulder much of the offensive load in 2024. The offensive line, brimming with potential, is expected to improve. With a new system in place, Harris is anticipated to have his best season yet. In his first three NFL seasons, Harris has consistently rushed for over 1,000 yards, a streak likely to continue in 2024.
Steelers' Najee Harris Playing For His Future In 2024
As Harris approaches free agency after the 2024 season, the Steelers have made it clear that this decision does not mean they are giving up on him. However, the pressure is now on Harris. If he has a standout season, he stands to earn more than the fifth-year option would have guaranteed.
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Steelers RB Najee Harris leaps over a Bengals defender.
If he struggles, he could earn less. Regardless, the Steelers will face a significant decision regarding Harris at the end of the season. Steelers fans are eager to hear from Harris during training camp.
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