In a recent development, the Pittsburgh Steelers have opted not to pick up the fifth-year option for quarterback Justin Fields, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. This decision effectively makes Fields a free agent in 2025, and he is set to play on a one-year deal alongside veteran Russell Wilson.

The fifth-year option for Fields, who was the No. 11 pick in the draft, would have cost the team a substantial amount, amounting to $25.664 million as per Over The Cap. Considering the limited compensation involved, it was a no-brainer for the Steelers to pass on the option. The team had acquired Fields in a trade with the Chicago Bears, giving up a conditional 2025 pick that can potentially become a fourth-round selection if Fields plays more than 51% of the offensive snaps this season.

Fields has proven himself as one of the most dynamic rushing quarterbacks in recent seasons, but his passing statistics have left something to be desired. However, he showed improvement last season, posting a career-high 197.1 passing yards per game and completing passes at a 61.4% rate. Fields also added 50.5 rush yards per game to his repertoire. The Steelers are hoping that Fields can provide a massive upgrade, either as a backup quarterback or potentially as a high-upside starter.

With Fields now on the roster, the Steelers face another decision regarding the fifth-year option, this time for running back Najee Harris, whom they drafted with the 24th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. The deadline for making a decision on Harris is Tuesday, May 2, and there has been no consensus regarding the team's decision.

The fifth-year option for Harris is set at $6.79 million, which would rank 12th among running backs in terms of average annual value (AAV). Given Harris' strong performance despite playing behind a shaky offensive line in a struggling offense, the decision should be relatively straightforward for the Steelers. Harris has accumulated 3,269 rushing yards, ranking him fourth among running backs, and has scored 21 rushing touchdowns, placing him tenth in the category. However, his efficiency has been a point of concern.

It remains to be seen how the Steelers will proceed with Harris, but they have already secured Fields as a potential long-term option at the quarterback position. The competition between Fields and Wilson for the starting job will be an interesting storyline to watch as the team looks to solidify its future.

As the May 2 deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the Steelers' decision regarding Harris and the impact it will have on their offensive strategy moving forward.