Najee Harris Face Uncertain Future Amidst Steelers Contract Drama
The Pittsburgh Steelers gear up for the 2024 NFL season, running back Najee Harris finds himself at a crossroads, both personally and professionally. Harris, who has been a key player for the Steelers since being drafted in 2021, is facing an uncertain future after the team declined his fifth-year option. This decision has left Harris and his wife contemplating what comes next as they navigate the complexities of NFL contract negotiations.
Najee Harris has been a standout performer for the Steelers, amassing 978 touches and 4,135 yards from scrimmage over the past three seasons. Despite his contributions, the Steelers chose not to pick up his fifth-year option, which would have guaranteed him a modest $6.7 million for the 2025 season. Harris has been vocal about the perceived devaluation of running backs in the NFL, especially when it comes time to negotiate contracts.
“I wouldn’t say devalued,” Harris remarked on Wednesday as he reported to Saint Vincent College for the start of training camp. “They’re only devalued when it comes time to pay. They’re not devalued, though, if you look around. There are games where I literally carry the offense.”
The decision to decline Harris’ option has brought uncertainty not just for him but also for his wife, who has been a pillar of support throughout his career. The couple is now facing the prospect of entering free agency next spring if no new deal is reached with the Steelers. Harris has been open about his disappointment and the challenges that running backs face in the current NFL landscape.
“Right now, we’re not in the best position because if they tell us to carry the ball this number of times, you can’t say no,” Harris said. “It won’t look good on you. You don’t really have any leverage right now as a running back. There’s nothing really you can do.”
The Steelers have undergone significant changes this offseason, bringing in a new offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith, and overhauling their quarterback room with the additions of Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. These changes have left Harris’ role in the offense somewhat uncertain. General Manager Omar Khan has stated that the decision to decline Harris’ option was a business decision and not indicative of the team’s future plans for him.
“It was a business decision we had to make,” Khan said in June. “Just because we didn’t pick it up doesn’t exclude us from doing something with Najee.”
As Harris embarks on what could be his final season with the Steelers, he remains focused on performing at his best, both for his team and for his future prospects. His wife, who has been a constant source of encouragement, stands by him as they face the uncertainty of the upcoming year.
“I like it here in Pittsburgh,” Harris said. “I like coach Tomlin, Mr. Rooney, Omar. It’s a good city. The people are nice and welcoming, but it’s a business. I’ve always been in the driver’s seat of this, and wherever God stops the car, is where I’m working — whether it’s here or someone else.”