The agent representing Najee Harris denied a rumor about him trying to reach free agency sooner.
Paul Zeise of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette said Thursday on 93.7 The Fan that a “little birdie” told him Harris asked the Pittsburgh Steelers to decline his fifth-year player option for 2025. Zeise claimed he received the intel from the same source who told him the team was trading for Justin Fields.
Doug Hendrickson, the running back’s agent, disputed the report on social media.
“Your ‘little birdie’ source is a joke,” Hendrickson wrote. “Next time do your homework and find a real source. Not true.”
Pittsburgh declined Harris’ option last week, making 2024 his final year under contract. But he may have been better off receiving that guaranteed check for another season.
Harris would have made $6.8 million in 2025 had the Steelers picked up his option. The 26-year-old may not land a higher average annual value in a suppressed market for running backs.
While Harris has exceeded 1,000 rushing yards in each of his first three seasons, the former No. 24 pick is also averaging 3.9 yards per carry. His receiving role has also diminished each year.
Austin Ekeler, who scored 38 touchdowns from 2021 to 2022, garnered a two-year, $8.4 million deal with the Washington Commanders following a down 2023. Aaron Jones, who is averaging 5.0 yards per carry in his career, will make $7 million per season with the Minnesota Vikings.
Harris has handled a heavy workload in Mike Tomlin’s offense, but Jaylen Warren could eat into his reps after accruing 1,154 scrimmage yards in 210 touches last season.