The NFL Combine is off to a strong start, and while the focus is naturally on the players testing their physical traits, there is another element to this process often overlooked. With the gathering of the Pittsburgh Steelers and 31 other teams along with individual player agents, it is almost always common for discussions on contracts to start.
The combine means open season for NFL free agency.
While the fireworks won’t kick off for another few days, teams can start to do some preliminary homework on why they want to sign while agents can gauge market interest. No formal deals will be finalized, but the groundwork for some of the more notable moves is being put into place as we speak.
Unfortunately, it seems like the Steelers are messing up this process already. While teams are strategically trying to improve their roster, Pittsburgh appears keen on maintaining their mediocre status.
Per Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette, the Steelers are talking with Najee Harris’ agents right now. The meaning behind this is simple, there is at least some form of interest in a new deal between the two sides.
The Pittsburgh Steelers can’t make the same mistake twice with Najee Harris
Harris has been one of the most lackluster starters for this team. While highly touted, Harris never found his footing with the Steelers. He had decent enough stats, but when you look at his usage and efficiency, those were a product of opportunities, not his talent.
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The Steelers made the surprising move to decline his fifth-year option last year, a clear sign that they didn’t see the value in bringing him back. Most expect his market value to be somewhere in the $8-$10 million a year range, so I have to question what the Steelers are doing right now.
If you wanted him around this year, his option would have cost less than $7 million. If you are good to cut bait with him, then why are you speaking with his agents at the NFL Combine?
None of this even takes into account the fact that paying for a running back who has struggled to be anything more than average spells disaster. The team can very easily and cheaply build a running back room around Jaylen Warren and some cheap free agents or rookies. Paying anything significant for Harris is a waste.
Time will tell if the team ultimately does agree to a new contract with Harris. Unless it is under the amount that his option was though, it would be a mistake to ink him to that new deal. It is high time for the Steelers to admit their mistake and cut their losses on Harris.