When the Pittsburgh Steelers announced their decision not to exercise the fifth-year option on Najee Harris’ contract, the shockwaves were felt deeply among the fanbase and across the NFL. This move casts significant uncertainty on the future of a running back who has become a cornerstone of the Steelers’ offense since being drafted in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft from Alabama.
Harris, known for his resilience and dynamic play, has amassed 3,269 rushing yards on 834 carries, despite battling injuries and an inconsistent offensive line.
A Motivated Athlete in a “Show-Me Year”
Former Steelers defensive tackle Chris Hoke recently shed light on Harris’ mindset following the team’s decision. In a discussion with Andrew Fillipponi on 93.7 The Fan, Hoke expressed confidence in Harris’ professionalism and motivation.
“This is going to be a show-me year for Najee. I’ll tell you what, I hear he has lost some weight. I think he’ll come out and he’s gonna prove that he’s worth every penny,” Hoke commented, highlighting the running back’s preparation and physical condition.
Addressing concerns about potential negative reactions, Hoke emphasized Harris’ character: “The reality is this: Najee’s always been a stand-up guy. Honestly, a couple of things came out of frustration, but Najee the guy, by all accounts, from my point of view, has always been a stand-up guy.” This endorsement speaks volumes about Harris’ integrity and dedication, traits that fans and teammates alike have come to rely on.
Evaluating the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Strategy
The Steelers‘ reluctance to pick up Harris’ option reflects a broader trend in the NFL where teams are increasingly hesitant to invest heavily in running backs. This trend is driven by the position’s perceived short career span and the historical ability of teams to succeed without a marquee running back.
For Pittsburgh, this move could be seen as a strategic decision to allocate resources more efficiently across the roster, especially as they aim to bolster their offensive line and adapt to new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s system.
Pittsburgh Steelers Offense #HereWeGo
QB: Russell Wilson / Justin Fields | Kyle Allen | John Rhys Plumlee
FB: Connor Heyward | Jack Colletto
RB: Najee Harris / Jaylen Warren / Cordarrelle Paterson | Aaron Shampklin / Daijun EdwardsX: George Pickens | Denzel Mims / Dez… https://t.co/4Ql2E0ts0P
— Jack Cavanagh (@javanagh87) May 8, 2024
The Road Ahead for Najee Harris
As the 2024 season approaches, Harris finds himself in a pivotal position. If he can capitalize on increased utilization in Smith’s offensive scheme, there’s a strong possibility that his market value will rise, potentially leading to a lucrative long-term deal before the season ends.
However, the alternative might see Harris entering free agency, where he could pursue a contract that reflects his true value, albeit with the risk of receiving a lower offer than expected.
For Najee Harris and the Steelers, the upcoming season is more than just another chapter in their respective histories—it’s a critical juncture that could define the future of both the player and the franchise. As Harris gears up to prove his worth on the field, Steelers fans will be watching closely, hoping that their star running back can turn this challenge into a career-defining triumph.
