Steelers GM: Najee Harris' Contract Option Being Declined Was 'Business Decision'

The Pittsburgh Steelers declined their fifth-year option on running back Najee Harris on May 2, making the former Alabama star a free agent after this upcoming season.

During an appearance on 93.7 The Fan Thursday, Steelers general manager Omar Khan explained why that call was made (h/t NFL.com's Nick Shook).

"It was a business decision that we had to make by May 2. 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.

"It was one of those things we had to make a decision on. We just felt right now that was the right decision for everyone. I love Najee. I'd love to have him here long term."

Harris has amassed 4,135 total yards and 28 touchdowns over his three-year career.

There's no denying Harris' production and availability. He's started all 17 games in each of his three seasons, rushing for over 1,000 yards in each campaign. Harris has also been featured in the pass game, accumulating 144 total receptions.

However, running backs have been devalued in today's NFL, and it's rare to see any of them get a lucrative second contract. One notable exception is Christian McCaffrey, but he's a two-time All-Pro who's totaled 10,505 yards and 81 touchdowns in just 91 career games.

Harris is solid and reliable, but he's also not the most efficient or explosive back, running for just 3.9 yards per carry for his career.

Still, as Khan noted, the option decline doesn't mean that his time in Pittsburgh is over. And it's clear that the team values him as a person and member of the locker room. We'll see if something can get done, but it's also feasible that Harris' time as a Steeler could be winding down here.