Player: RB Najee Harris
Stock Value: Down
Reasoning: In something of a surprise move, the Steelers opted not to exercise RB Najee Harris’ fifth-year option. A 2021 first-round draft pick, the decision means he can reach unrestricted free agency in March. Harris is suddenly in a contract season as the only player with three consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons in franchise history.
One can debate whether the Steelers not picking up his fifth-year option works to Najee Harris’ advantage. I have no doubt, however, that on some level he views the decision as a criticism.