Pittsburgh Steelers running back, Najee Harris has been a polarizing figure since being drafted in the first round in 2021. Despite what fans may say about him, Harris has had three consecutive 1,000+ yard seasons. He was selected for the Pro Bowl his rookie season and has never missed a game. He managed to do all that regardless of the Steelers' weak offensive line, abysmal play-calling, and quarterback confusion.
Harris has always had a love-hate relationship with the media. He has never seemed particularly fond of speaking to them or enduring their critical questions. So when he arrived at Saint Vincent College for the first day of training camp in Latrobe, PA, he blew past the media, choosing to cut across the lawn, rather than go down the sidewalk, which renewed criticism of Harris on social media.
When he finally came out and spoke to the media, he was asked how he felt about his option being declined. The media wondered if Harris had been given a reason for why they weren't extending him. He told the press that the front office told him that the organization is unsure where the offense is headed with new Offensive Coordinator, Arthur Smith. They apparently want to see what transpires this season before deciding whether to keep him. Harris added that he was initially disappointed, but there is nothing he can do about it, so there is no point in dwelling.
Head Coach Mike Tomlin spoke with the media following the team's arrival at camp and was asked about Harris and the reason he gave the media for being declined. They wanted to know if there is a direction that the offense is headed that would lead them away from Harris. Tomin was his usual curt and somewhat cryptic self.
"No need for me to add any more to his answer to your question," said Tomlin. "If that's what he was told, that's what he was told."
Harris has been splitting downs with fellow running back Jaylen Warren since arriving in Pittsburgh as an undrafted rookie in 2022. When speaking to the press, Harris also said that he feels he "literally carries the offense." It wasn't clear if he meant himself in the singular sense, or if he meant that the Steelers rely heavily on their run game.
Regardless, it is hard to imagine that Harris won't be integral to Smith's offense in 2024. When he was the offensive coordinator of the Tennessee Titans, running back Derrick Henry had the best season of his career.
Steelers' Jaylen Warren's Contract Also Looming
Harris isn't the only running back in Pittsburgh with a contract coming to a close. When Warren was signed in 2022, it was a three-year $2.572 million deal. This is also the last year of his contract, and he should definitely command more money in 2025.
Some think the Steelers should just let Harris walk and worry about re-signing Warren. While the running back position has fallen out of favor since the league has become more of a passing one, Pittsburgh remains a bastion to smashmouth football.
