Steel Curtain Network: A Pittsburgh Steelers podcast

Don’t believe reports of a rift between Najee Harris and the Steelers

There are times when some content creators decide to try and connect dots which were never meant to be connected in the first place. Anyone who has ever stepped into this realm can tell you about times when this has happened. Often times, the end result are false reports being thrown around the internet/social media which pick up steam.

In other words, someone deciding to make a mountain out of a mole hill, or in this case making a mountain out of nothing.

As it pertains to the Pittsburgh Steelers, the most recent instance of this taking place would be when the team decided to not pick up Najee Harris’ 5th year option. It was rather inexpensive, just under $7 million dollars, and made fans wonder why the team wouldn’t put that financial faith into their 1st Round pick from 2021.

Immediately fans thought Harris would be a disgruntled employee, and a rift would develop between the two parties.

Those are the proverbial dots which were immediately connected, and some media went a step further and started suggesting the team might consider trading Harris. While the trade reports have been debunked, the thoughts of Harris and the Steelers organization being divided couldn’t be further from the truth.

According to our source inside the building, the Steelers and Harris continue to have a very strong relationship, even though Harris was disappointed his option wasn’t picked up. However, Harris also realizes the opportunity he has in 2024 in a contract year. If he plays well, he will earn himself plenty of money in 2025, for someone and not necessarily the Steelers. However, the pressure is now on him to perform in 2024, with a new offensive coordinator.

On top of that, there is zero concern on the Steelers part he will be an issue in 2024. Harris has never been a trouble maker, and the team doesn’t expect him to start being one in a contract year. The Steelers are hoping for a big year from Harris this year, and they fully understand the risk that involves if/when he has a good season.

As for those reports of a trade in the works, or Harris being a disgruntled employee, from what we’re hearing those simply aren’t true. To hear more on this, check out the podcast in the player below, and be sure to stay tuned to SCN for the latest news and notes surrounding the Steelers this offseason.

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