The Pittsburgh Steelers declined to pick up the fifth-year option on former first-round back Najee Harris.
The Alabama football product enters the fifth and final year of his rookie deal after rushing for three consecutive 1,000 yard seasons with the club.
Steelers GM Omar Khan spoke publicly on Harris and what led to this decision on Friday.
“It was a business decision that we had to make by May 2,” Khan said during a Thursday appearance on 93.7 The Fan. “But Najee’s awesome to have around here. Love Najee as a player and a person. Just because we didn’t pick it up doesn’t exclude us from doing something with Najee long term. I’d love to say Najee was here and had a long career in Pittsburgh. He really represents us well on the field and off the field.”
Harris has been a participant in the teams voluntary OTAs but is currently not practicing. Harris has declined an interview request at this time but says he will speak during Steelers training camp.
Harris is set up to play for a new deal in the fall. Many consider this a make it or break it year for the fifth-year back.
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