For whatever reason, it appeared to be a foregone conclusion that the Pittsburgh Steelers and Najee Harris would go their separate ways after the 2024 season. While Harris could indeed depart via free agency,

Not picking up Najee Harris‘ fifth-year option, the Steelers also did not conduct any known extension talks before Week 1. A team with a no-in-season negotiating policy has either left this winter window open to re-sign Harris or is prepared to move on with Jaylen Warren and a cheaper option in 2025.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a lot of controversy heading into the 2025 offseason regarding the quarterback and wide receiver positions. That's just the beginning, however, when it comes to the offense.

Harris is coming off his best rushing campaign since his rookie year with the Steelers in 2021. He hasn't missed a single game in four seasons, and has proved to be one of the NFL's most durable players. But is he worth the money, when the Steelers have been canned from the playoffs in the first round the last two years?

The Pittsburgh Steelers are likely to have a new starting running back for the first time in four seasons, as Najee Harris is hitting free agency and is not expected to be back in 2025. One NFL analyst believes the Steelers are the most ideal landing spot for another free-agent running back.

With the sentiment that running backs aren't worth paying quickly eroding, Najee Harris could cash out upon reaching free agency as his rookie contract expires

During Najee Harris’ four years with the Pittsburgh Steelers, he has been a metronome of production. However, for a running back who has produced 4,312 yards and 28 touchdowns, his reputation is that of someone who has gained 1,

Spotrac has now projected Harris' contract in free agency, and it comes in as a healthy three years, $27 million. That would make Harris the ninth highest-paid running back in the entire NFL, tied for that spot with New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson.