Ever since the Pittsburgh Steelers declined the fifth-year option of running back Najee Harris earlier this offseason, we've seen reports with differing reasons as to why Pittsburgh went that route.
Harris has been disappointing over the past two seasons, although it's hard to blame all of that on him considering the issues upfront. But there was a rumor stating Harris asked the Steelers to decline it so he can play elsewhere in 2024.
Harris' agent later denied that was the case, saying the rumor was "a joke."
Upon arriving at training camp on Wednesday, Harris revealed that it was the team that wanted to decline his option because the Steelers "didn't know which direction the offense is headed," according to ESPN's Brooke Pryor.
Najee Harris, speaking for the first time since the team declined his fifth year option, said the Steelers told him they were declining because “they didn’t know which direction the offense is headed.”
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) July 24, 2024
What's strange about that answer is new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith has had success with a run-first offense before during his days in the same role with the Tennessee Titans.
Harris added that he was "disappointed" with the decision Pittsburgh made, but he has since gotten over it and is looking forward to preparing for the 2024 campaign, which will now be a crucial contract year for him.
Najee Harris’ first comments to media since January pic.twitter.com/3WcJSbP6BL
— Chris Adamski (@C_AdamskiTrib) July 24, 2024
Harris has broken the 1,000-yard mark in all three seasons of his career but has seen less production both on the ground and through the air over the last two years after his impressive rookie campaign.
The Steelers have also seen poor offensive line play in that span, so it isn't all on him, but we've also seen fellow running back Jaylen Warren have success behind that same line.
Whatever the case may be, Harris will have to show out in 2024 if he wants to get the lucrative, long-term deal he is no doubt seeking in 2025.
