Steelers fans have a right to be disappointed with Najee Harris

The most prominent headline from the opening of the Steelers training camp is Najee Harris' disappointment that the Steelers declined his 5th-year option. Admittedly, he wants to stay in Pittsburgh and hopefully get an extension, but barring some sort of miracle, an extension by the Steelers will not happen.

The ball, as they say, is in his court now. His level of play in 2024 will determine whether the Steelers sign him to a new contract or he tests free agency.

While it's true that his first three seasons may not have been as dynamic as some fans would have liked, there's still hope for a turnaround. His potential is undeniable, and a breakout season in 2024 could see him staying in Pittsburgh for a while.

Why fans are unhappy with Najee Harris

It's not that Najee Harris is a bad running back. He has rushed for over 1000 yards his first three seasons, but compared to other running backs in Steelers history, he might be the most boring yet successful running back.

If he has one upside, he can be challenging to tackle, and it takes several defenders to bring him to the ground. Generally, though, he's rarely going at top speed when that happens. He is not like Jerome Bettis, who punished defenders who tried to tackle him back in the day as he was running at top speed.

Most of his career thus far has seen him run textbook rushing routes right into the backside of his blockers, never cutting to the hole. As a result, he has only averaged 3.9 yards per attempt, which seems paltry compared to Jaylen Warren's 5.1 yards per attempt. Also, Harris has never had a rush over 37 yards, whereas Warren had one for 74 yards.

However, all that could change in 2024, and Harris could earn the coveted new contract. The Steelers' running game finally improved in 2023 after the ouster of Matt Canada, and the addition of Broderick Jones certainly played a part.

But with the arrival of new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, known for his run-heavy strategies, and three new offensive linemen in the draft, Harris is set up for success in 2024.

As we look ahead to 2025, the question of whether the Steelers will keep Harris around is a hot topic. It's not just up to the Steelers, but also up to Najee Haris. If he can have a breakout season in 2024, perhaps he will stay in Pittsburgh for a while.

Short of that, the Steelers will probably choose to move on, either with Jaylen Warren or perhaps a free agent or another draft choice. The debate is open, and the outcome is anything but certain, but the Steelers have given Harris everything needed for success in 2024.