The Pittsburgh Steelers might not be sure who their starting running back for the 2025 season will be, but they know that Najee Harris is not the first option.

In fact, the team will not pick up Najee Harris’ fifth-year option in his rookie deal, one that would make him a free agent after the 2024 season, according to reports.

The cap hit for the team would be $6.79 million if they were to keep Harris an extra season, but apparently gaining 1,000 yards in his first three years as an NFL pro running back was not enough.

Harris was selected with the number 24 pick in the 2021 NFL draft in the middle of criticism from the football gurus, but historically the Steelers have had solid running games thanks to their offensive linemen and talented backfield, so it made sense they went with the Alabama product.

The former SEC star running back is set to receive a base salary of $2.4 million in 2024 and will cost the Steeler $4.2 millions against the cap. The decision also come with uncertainty for the future at the position, considering this move leaves Pittsburgh without any running back signed past next season.

The backup is Jaylen Warren, and he signed a one-year deal recently for just under $1 million.

This might not be the end for Najee Harris in Pittsburgh

There is still a chance Najee Harris can comeback with the team after the 2024 season, according to sources.

The team is not ruling put the possibility of offering Harris a contract extension, but it will all depend on his performances this upcoming season under new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.

Najee Harris has started 51 straight regular-season games for the Steelers.