The deadline for teams to make this decision on their 2021 first-round picks was Thursday.

Multiple reports have confirmed that the Steelers have declined to pick up the option, which means that Harris, who was the 24th overall pick in the draft, will potentially become a free agent after the upcoming season. Had the option been exercised, Harris would have been guaranteed a salary of $6.79 million for the 2022 season.

Harris has had an impressive performance over the past three seasons with the Steelers, rushing for over 1,000 yards each year and scoring a total of 28 touchdowns. Additionally, he has displayed durability by playing in every game.

However, the decision to decline the option suggests that the team is taking a cautious approach. Last season, backup running back Jaylen Warren showcased explosive potential, and it seems that the Steelers believe they do not need to commit to guaranteeing Harris's salary for the 2025 season until they assess how the 2024 season unfolds.

The decline of the option for Harris will create speculation and uncertainty surrounding his future with the Steelers. It opens the possibility for other teams to pursue him in free agency if he indeed becomes available. The Steelers will now have to closely monitor Harris's performance during the upcoming season before making any long-term commitments.

It remains to be seen how Harris will respond to this decision and how it will impact his performance on the field. The 2022 season will be crucial for him to prove his worth and secure his future in the NFL.

Only time will tell if the Steelers made the right call in declining the fifth-year option on Najee Harris, but for now, the running back finds himself on the path to free agency after the upcoming season.