Najee Harris: A Rookie Phenomenon
Najee Harris burst onto the NFL scene in 2021 when the Pittsburgh Steelers selected him in the first round of the draft. The running back from Alabama quickly established himself as a reliable and durable force in the Steelers’ backfield, showcasing a unique blend of power and finesse. Over his first three seasons, Harris has consistently exceeded 1,000 rushing yards, a testament to his workhorse mentality and the trust the team placed in him. However, as he heads toward free agency, the Steelers find themselves at a crossroads, with their exclusive negotiating window rapidly closing.
The Fifth-Year Option Dilemma
Despite his solid performance, the Steelers decided against exercising Harris’s fifth-year option, which would have cost them $6.79 million. This decision might seem surprising, given his three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, including another impressive campaign in 2024. The franchise faces a tough choice: whether to apply the franchise tag, which is currently estimated to cost over $13.5 million for a single year, or to allow Harris to test the open market. The franchise tag would be a significant financial commitment, more than double the cost of the fifth-year option, and one that the Steelers may be hesitant to make.
Comparisons to Elite Running Backs
The decision to potentially let Harris walk is particularly notable when considering the recent contract extensions and recognitions given to other top running backs like Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry, and Josh Jacobs. These players have consistently proven to be in a class of their own, with explosive speed and game-changing abilities that command premium salaries. The Steelers may be evaluating whether Harris, while reliable and durable, falls into the same elite category. If they believe he doesn’t, they might be more inclined to move on and explore other options, whether through free agency or the draft.
Harris’s Strengths and Value
Despite not possessing the same burst as the likes of Barkley, Henry, and Jacobs, Harris brings a different set of strengths to the table. His career average of 3.8 yards per carry might not be eye-popping, but it reflects his ability to grind out tough yards and keep drives alive. Harris has never missed a game in his career, logging an impressive 1,277 touches at an average of 319.25 per season. His reliability and durability are invaluable assets for any team, especially in a league where injuries are common and can significantly impact performance.
The Motivation Factor
If the Steelers do decide to let Harris hit the free-agent market, his motivation could rise to unprecedented levels. The sting of not being re-signed by the team that drafted him could serve as a powerful catalyst, driving him to prove his worth to a new organization. This increased motivation could translate to even better performance on the field, potentially providing a significant return on investment for any team that signs him. Harris’s edge and toughness, characteristics that have permeated through the Steelers’ offense, are qualities that can inspire and elevate his teammates wherever he goes.
The Market for Running Backs
The current landscape of the NFL running back market is also a crucial factor. With few high-end free agent options available, Harris could find himself in a favorable position. The running back position, once considered secondary to other skill positions, is experiencing something of a resurgence. Harris’s consistent performance and reliability make him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their ground game. If the Steelers don’t move quickly, especially as the Scouting Combine, often referred to as "Tampering Central," looms on the horizon, they risk losing one of the league’s most consistent and dependable running backs to a competitor.
