By Matt Stuart | Published | No Comments
The Pittsburgh Steelers have declined to pick up the fifth year option for running back Najee Harris. It’s a somewhat surprising move considering that Harris has been a consistent 1,000 yard rusher so far in his young career, even if he has fallen short of that elite level.
The Steelers would have owed Harris just $6.9 million for his fifth year, but the team may instead see a brighter future in second year running back Jaylen Warren, who was more productive in average yards per carry last season than was Harris.
With the Steelers making a change at the offensive coordinator position in the off-season, going with former Atlanta Falcons head coach Arthur Smith, the team may be waiting to see which running back, Warren or Harris, will be the better fit.
Steelers are declining Najee Harris’ fifth year option, per source.
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) May 2, 2024
With the new offense being installed, the feeling is the organization wants to see how Harris and the RBs function in Arthur Smith’s offense before making a longer term commitment to him.
Harris will now become a free agent after this upcoming season. Harris has rushed for 3,269 yards, 22 touchdowns, and has average 3.9 yards per carry in his first three seasons in the league.
