In the swirling vortex of NFL trade rumours, one name that recently captured headlines was Najee Harris, the talented running back whose future with the Pittsburgh Steelers appeared uncertain after the team declined his $6.8 million fifth-year option.
Speculations of Harris joining the Dallas Cowboys quickly gained momentum, driven by media buzz and fan speculation. However, this rumour was promptly quashed by a well-placed source, setting the record straight on the immediate future of this standout athlete.
The Origin of the Rumor
The rumour of Harris’s potential move to the Cowboys was first mentioned by Adam Crowley of Pittsburgh’s 93.7 The Fan, who described it as a “hot” topic among insiders. The connection made sense on the surface; the Cowboys could certainly benefit from a player of Harris’s calibre to bolster their backfield. With a lineup that includes Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle, adding Harris would undoubtedly be an upgrade.
NFL Insider Debunks the Trade Talks
However, the excitement was short-lived as Jane Slater, a respected NFL Network insider, took to platform X to clarify the situation. Slater shared a quote from a team source, labelling the Harris-to-Cowboys narrative as mere “clickbait.” This revelation pointed to the speculative nature of the rumour and highlighted the often speculative churn of the sports news cycle.
Pittsburgh’s Perspective: Strategic Patience
Despite the decline of Harris’s option, the Steelers seem to have a calculated approach towards his contract situation. Reports from ESPN’s Brooke Pryor indicate that Pittsburgh is still very much open to working with Harris.
The team is keen on seeing how he fits into the system under new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith before committing to a long-term deal. This strategic patience underscores Pittsburgh’s interest in retaining Harris, especially considering his historic performance as the first player in team history to rush for 1,000 yards in each of his first three seasons.
The Steelers didn't pick up Najee Harris' 5th year option but I'm predicting that he will be Pittsburgh's offensive MVP this season. pic.twitter.com/wMSmBhFRPq
— Billy Hartford (@BudDupreeFan) May 8, 2024
The Implications for Dallas Cowboys
For the Cowboys, the immediate future does not seem to include Harris. Despite the initial excitement, it appears the team is content with its current roster of running backs. This might be revisited next offseason, depending on Harris’s market situation and the Cowboys’ needs at that time.
Harris’s Stand on the Value of Running Backs
An interesting subplot in this entire scenario is Harris’s outspoken views on the devaluation of running backs in the NFL. His disagreement with the Steelers over the decline of his option speaks volumes about his stance on the financial recognition of running backs in the league. This could be a significant factor in his future negotiations, whether with Pittsburgh or elsewhere.
Conclusion
The saga of Najee Harris and the trade rumours to the Dallas Cowboys serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in NFL trades and player contracts. While the allure of adding a star player like Harris is undeniable, the realities of team strategies, player values, and contractual negotiations often dispel such rumours. For now, Harris remains a Steeler, and the Cowboys will continue to explore their options as they prepare for the next season.
