Pittsburgh Steelers running back, Najee Harris has had an eventful offseason. While it seemed like a no-brainer that Pittsburgh would pick up Harris' fifth-year option, the team announced they would not be doing so. If the option had been exercised, it would have guaranteed Harris $6.79 million for the 2025 season. Instead, this is now the final year of Harris' contract, making him a free agent after this season.
Joe Sargent / Getty Images
Pittsburgh Steelers running back, Najee Harris during a game in Pittsburgh, PA.
Since joining the Steelers in 2021, Harris has played three seasons without ever rushing for fewer than 1,000 yards in a season. In his rookie year, Harris made the Pro Bowl and has never missed a start in his three-year career. Over this time, he has carried the ball 834 times for 3,269 rushing yards and scored 22 rushing touchdowns. As a receiver, he has 144 receptions for 866 yards and six touchdowns.
Harris' availability and consistency have clearly made him one of the top running backs in the league. However, despite his impressive stats, the Steelers still opted not to pick up his option. This decision has left many Steelers fans eager to hear Harris' opinion, but he has refused to talk to the media all offseason.
During the Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal boxing fight aired by FANMIO on Saturday night, Harris was shown to the crowd before the main event. Harris was interviewed during the fight and shared his thoughts on the Steelers' offseason.
"Feeling good, man," Harris said. "We did good this offseason. Obviously, we picked up our two quarterbacks, so we are excited about it. We think we're gonna have a lot of good things happening this year."
Harris has been elusive this offseason, but it’s reported that he plans to speak to the media during training camp. Steelers fans are eager to hear from him. This season is crucial for Harris, not only because he’s in a contract year, but also because he’ll be running behind an improved offensive line in a new system.
The Steelers hired Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith this offseason. Smith is determined to fix the team’s recent offensive struggles by reviving the run game and leaning on it heavily. This means Harris and Jaylen Warren should see an increased workload in a more productive environment.
Matt Freed / Post-Gazette
Steelers' Najee Harris leaps over a defender during a game against the Seattle Seahawks in Pittsburgh, PA.
Harris briefly commented on the Steelers' offseason, praising the team’s efforts without mentioning his declined option. He expressed excitement about the new quarterbacks, Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, and is confident the team will have a great 2024 season.
The Steelers are eager to return to the Super Bowl hunt, and a standout year from Harris will be essential. Fans are eager to see what type of deal Pittsburgh offers Harris, if any, after the 2024 season.
Steelers' Omar Khan Still Wants Najee Harris In Pittsburgh
Steelers General Manager Omar Khan recently commented on the ongoing situation with Harris, clarifying that the team's latest decision does not necessarily mean they are moving on from him.
Matt Freed / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
General Manager Omar Khan speaks to the press at the Pittsburgh Steelers' UPMC Sports Complex in Pittsburgh, PA.
Khan expressed optimism about Harris's potential to remain a valuable asset for the Steelers in the future. Despite the uncertainties, Khan emphasized his hope that Harris can continue to contribute to the team's success and be an integral part of their long-term plans.
#SteelerNation
