One of the big financial decisions the Pittsburgh Steelers need to make this offseason is whether or not to exercise the fifth-year option for running back Najee Harris. This would add an extra year to his current contract and pay him something in the neighborhood of $6.6 million in 2025.
The last time the Steelers had to make such a decision, they opted not to exercise the fifth-year option on linebacker Devin Bush. This, after Bush proved to be a wasted pick for the Steelers and a bust. But for Harris, the decision is an easy one as Harris has continued to improve in each of his three NFL seasons.
Harris has rushed for at least 1,000 yards in each season and has evolved in his running style to help keep himself healthy and improve his efficiency running the ball.
The argument against Harris getting the fifth-year option is the existence of Jaylen Warren. We don’t see it that way at all and thanks to the hire of new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, the need to two great backs becomes even more important.
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