Steelers Fans' Suspicious Thoughts Validated By Arthur Smith Comparing Najee Harris To Derrick Henry

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a surprising decision this offseason by not picking up Najee Harris' fifth-year option. As a result, Harris will become a free agent after the 2024 season, although the Steelers will have the opportunity to re-sign him. By declining the option, Pittsburgh forgoes guaranteeing Harris $6.79 million for his fifth year.

Many fans expected the Steelers to exercise the option, given Harris' impressive track record. Over the past three seasons, he has rushed for over 1,000 yards each year and has demonstrated remarkable reliability, never missing a game despite his heavy usage. This durability is especially noteworthy for a running back in today’s game.

Reports indicate that the Steelers' decision was influenced by their desire to evaluate Harris within the context of Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith's system. In the season opener against the Atlanta Falcons, Harris showcased a noticeable change in his play. He appeared quicker and more aggressive, delivering impactful hits to defenders. Smith remarked to Mike DeFabo that Harris' performance brought to mind his former star running back, Derrick Henry.

The Steelers' choice not to exercise Harris' fifth-year option is a strategic move to assess how he fits into Smith's offensive scheme before committing any promised money. As the season progresses, Harris' performance will likely play a crucial role in determining whether Pittsburgh decides to invest in his future with the team.

There was considerable optimism about Harris in Smith’s new offense, which is why many Steelers fans were surprised when the team chose not to pick up his fifth-year option. Paying Harris $6.79 million for that year would likely have been much less expensive than what the team might have to offer him if he performs well throughout the season. 

Given Harris' impressive showing against the Falcons, his value is expected to increase if he maintains that level of play, potentially leading to a higher price tag for the Steelers to keep him.

Some fans worry that Harris' time with the Steelers might be ending. However, Steelers General Manager Omar Khan has emphasized that the decision not to exercise Harris’ option does not preclude the possibility of negotiating a future deal. The team’s approach reflects a strategic evaluation of Harris’ performance within the new offensive system before committing to a long-term contract.

Smith was anticipated to reintroduce a physical style of football to Pittsburgh, and the first game of the season showcased that approach. Steelers fans are excited about the potential of seeing the offense fully operational with a healthy Jaylen Warren alongside Harris. During his time as the offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans, Smith played a key role in the breakout seasons of Henry.

Steelers' Arthur Smith Changed The Career Of Derrick Henry

In the two seasons Smith served as Henry’s offensive coordinator, Henry amassed 681 carries, 3,567 rushing yards, and 33 rushing touchdowns—two of the most productive years of his career. Many Steelers fans hope Harris could replicate this level of success in 2024.

In the season opener, Harris rushed 20 times for 70 yards. While not a standout performance in terms of numbers, what stood out was the renewed energy he brought to the field. Harris appeared quicker, more difficult to tackle, and more aggressive, frequently driving through defenders. 

This performance led Smith to draw a comparison between Harris and Henry, noting similarities in their running styles. Steelers fans are eager to see if Harris can maintain this aggressive play and continue to challenge defenders throughout the season.

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