Steelers RB Najee Harris 'disappointed' team declined fifth-year option

The Steelers decided to decline the fifth-year option on running back Najee Harris this offseason in a move that has since been highly debated, as it was worth just $6.79 million.

Harris had declined to comment on the situation for much of the offseason but ended his silence on Wednesday.

"I was disappointed for a minute but it's nothing where me sitting around being disappointed for too long would do anything to help me out," Harris said . "I think that it is what it is."

It was a bit of a head-scratching decision by Pittsburgh since Harris became the first player in franchise history to rush for 1,000 yards in his first three seasons, but the team has undergone a lot of change this offseason, including at offensive coordinator in Arthur Smith.

In May, Brooke Pryor of ESPN reported that the Steelers want to see how Harris and fellow running back Jaylen Warren function in Smith's offense before making a long-term commitment to them.

Harris confirmed that belief on Wednesday, saying , "They didn't know which direction the offense is headed."

Some believe that the 2024 season will be Harris' last in Pittsburgh, but the team hasn't completely shut the door on him returning in 2025.

"Najee's awesome to have around here. Love Najee as a player and a person," general manager Omar Khan said on 93.7 The Fan. "And just because we didn't pick it up, that doesn't exclude us from doing something with Najee for the long term."

Harris didn't rule out the idea of him returning, either. In fact, he said he wants to remain a Steeler, per Mark Kaboly of The Athletic.

The 26-year-old did reveal, however, that there haven't been any contract negotiations thus far.

"There has been nothing," Harris stated .

For now, Harris is solely focused on having the best season he can to help his team and his future payday.

"You just got to keep pushing," Harris added. "Coming out here and doing what's best for the team and having a good year is what's most important right now."