For various reasons, it seemed like a certainty that the Pittsburgh Steelers and Najee Harris would part ways after the 2024 season. While Harris might indeed depart via free agency, there remains a possibility that the former Pro Bowl running back will continue his career in Pittsburgh, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
The Post-Gazette has indicated that the Steelers engaged wiht Harris’ representatives during the NFL Scouting Combine. The Gazette previously reported that the Steelers are likely to extend Harris a two- or three-year contract before free agency begins, possibly offering him between $7 million and $10 million annually.
Pittsburgh opted not to exercise Harris’ fifth-year option last spring, which may be a meaningful factor contributing to the perception of his inevitable exit after 2024. However, it appears that at least an offer will be made by the Steelers before free agency kicks off. It will ultimately be up to Harris whether he chooses to sign an extension or explore other options in the market.
The reason for wanting to re-sign Harris is clear for the Steelers; he was their first running back chosen in the 2021NFL Draft.
. Even though he may not break off many long runs, his reliability stands out compared to this era’s other running backs. Throughout his four-year career, he has never missed a game—a key factor in him becoming only the second running back since‘Chris Johnson’(from 2008–11)to rush for over1 ,000 yards each of his first four seasons.“Najee has had an amazing four years here,” said Steelers coach Mike Tomlinlast month.”We have certainly enjoyed having him on our team and clearly his remarkable consistency with four consecutive seasons of over1 ,000 yards speaks volumes.”
The president ofthe Steelers Art Rooney II also commented onHarris’ future while hinting atthe possibility of re-signing him.
“Look,najee is an excellent player,and we’ll assess if we can bringhim back,”Rooney stated.”He’ll have options as well.It’san important positionfor us and evidently forother teams who have found success this year.So perhaps it’snot as undervalued as some might believe.”
No matter what decisionHarrismakes,theSteelers are anticipatedto tender Jaylen Warren,/ A WHO HAS carved outhis rolein Pittsburgh’s offenseover recentthree yearsaftergoing undraftedbackin2O22.Warrenhas averaged836 all-purposeyards per seasonwhile maintainingan impressive averageof4.8yardsper carry.
