The Pittsburgh Steelers have chosen not to exercise the fifth-year option for Najee Harris’ rookie contract, the team announced Thursday. The option would’ve guaranteed Harris $6.79 million for the 2025 season.

Harris, the 24th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, has been a cornerstone of the Steelers offense since his arrival. He has rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his first three NFL seasons, becoming the first Steelers running back to do so.

Harris, 26, made the Pro Bowl as a rookie in 2021. He’s been a model of consistency and durability, making 51 consecutive starts. It makes the recent news all that more surprising.

In 2023, he rushed for 1,035 yards and eight touchdowns. Harris also added 29 receptions for 170 receiving yards. In his career, he’s amassed 3,269 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns; he has 144 receptions for 866 yards and six touchdowns as well.

YEAR	GS	ATT	YDS	AVG	TD	TGT	REC	YDS	TD
2021	17	307	1,200	3.9	7	94	74	467	3
2022	17	272	1,034	3.8	7	53	41	229	3
2023	17	255	1,035	4.1	8	38	29	170	0
Career	51	834	3,269	3.9	22	185	144	866	6

According to Steelers Update‘s Will Vandervort, only three other players in NFL history have had as many rushing yards and receptions as Harris in their first three seasons. Edgerrin James (Colts) and LaDainian Tomlinson (Chargers) did it during their Hall of Fame careers, while former Atlanta Falcons running back William Andrews did the same.

Concerns about the heavy workload Harris has shouldered could play a role in the team deciding not to pick up his option. The emergence of Jaylen Warren could’ve also played a factor. Or perhaps the Steelers want Harris to play in a prove it year to determine his next contract, whether it be with Pittsburgh or not.

The Steelers also decided not to pick up recently acquired quarterback Justin Fields’ fifth-year option, leaving his future with the team uncertain.

The Steelers had until 4 p.m. ET today to exercise the fifth-year options of first-round picks from the 2021 draft class.