Steelers General Manager Omar Khan has made the decision not to pick up the fifth-year option on running back Najee Harris’s rookie contract, but he has expressed that this does not mean Harris won’t be a part of the team beyond 2025. Khan mentioned on 93.7 The Fan that there is a possibility of Harris signing a contract extension with the Steelers and not becoming a free agent in the future.
Khan emphasized that the decision was a business one that needed to be made by May 2, but he reiterated his admiration for Harris as both a player and person. He expressed his desire for Harris to have a long and successful career in Pittsburgh, mentioning how well Harris represents the team on and off the field. Khan conveyed that while the option was not picked up, it does not rule out the potential for a long-term deal with Harris.
The Steelers GM disclosed that he personally spoke with Harris to inform him of the decision regarding his option, and while he did not provide details of their conversation, Khan seemed hopeful about the prospect of Harris remaining with the team for the long haul. He reassured that not exercising the option for another year does not mean the Steelers are not interested in working out a long-term agreement with Harris.
In a league where running backs are often not seen as worthy of big contracts, Harris might still find that the Steelers are willing to offer him a deal that exceeds what other teams are willing to provide. Khan’s comments suggest that Harris is valued by the Steelers organization, and there is a possibility of him having a future in Pittsburgh beyond his rookie contract.
As such, it seems likely that there will be ongoing conversations between Khan and Harris regarding his future with
