The 2021 NFL Draft class has reached its deadline date to have fifth-year options picked up on rookie contracts.
Alabama football had a few alums in the class, including Mac Jones, DeVonta Smith, Jaylen Waddle, Patrick Surtain II, Alex Leatherwood, and Najee Harris. Waddle and Surtain got their fifth-year options picked up while Smith earned a contract extension from the Philadelphia Eagles on top of his fifth-year option. Jones got traded from the New England Patriots to the Jacksonville Jaguars and Leatherwood is currently a free agent.
Harris was selected in the first round (No. 24 overall) by the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the team has a decision to make on him. Harris is a three-time 1,000+ yard running back, totaling 3,269 yards rushing and 22 touchdowns in 51 career games. He’s also caught 144 passes for 866 yards and six touchdowns.
RELATED: Alabama in the mix for Houston transfer DB
Harris made the Pro Bowl in 2021 and has been one of the league’s best young rushers.
He signed a four-year, $13 million contract upon getting drafted. The California native would make $6.79 million this fall if the Steelers grab his fifth-year option.
Harris was a two-time College Football Playoff National Champion (2017, 2020) at Alabama.
*Get the BEST Alabama football insider information, message board access, and recruiting coverage today! SIGN UP HERE to unlock our subscriber-only content!*
Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
