Will Steelers pick up fifth-year option on RB Najee Harris’ rookie contract?

The 2021 NFL Draft class has reached its deadline date to have fifth-year options picked up on rookie contracts.

Alabama football had a few alums in the class, including Mac Jones, DeVonta Smith, Jaylen Waddle, Patrick Surtain II, Alex Leatherwood, and Najee Harris. Waddle and Surtain got their fifth-year options picked up while Smith earned a contract extension from the Philadelphia Eagles on top of his fifth-year option. Jones got traded from the New England Patriots to the Jacksonville Jaguars and Leatherwood is currently a free agent.

Harris was selected in the first round (No. 24 overall) by the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the team has a decision to make on him. Harris is a three-time 1,000+ yard running back, totaling 3,269 yards rushing and 22 touchdowns in 51 career games. He’s also caught 144 passes for 866 yards and six touchdowns. 

Harris made the Pro Bowl in 2021 and has been one of the league’s best young rushers.

He signed a four-year, $13 million contract upon getting drafted. The California native would make $6.79 million this fall if the Steelers grab his fifth-year option. 

Harris was a two-time College Football Playoff National Champion (2017, 2020) at Alabama.