Steelers GM Omar Khan sounds off on Najee Harris

The Pittsburgh Steelers raised more than a few eyebrows when it was reported that they declined the 5th year contract option of All-Pro running back Najee Harris.

And Steelers general manager Omar Khan has explained the reasoning behind the decision, declaring it to be a "business decision" that had to be completed by a certain date. 

"It was a business decision that we had to make by May 2," Khan said during a Thursday appearance on 93.7 The Fan. "But Najee's awesome to have around here. Love Najee as a player and a person. Just because we didn't pick it up doesn't exclude us from doing something with Najee long term. I'd love to say Najee was here and had a long career in Pittsburgh. He really represents us well on the field and off the field. "It was one of those things we had to make a decision on. We just felt right now that was the right decision for everyone. I love Najee. I'd love to have him here long term."

Harris is set to enter this season without a contract beyond the upcoming campaign, leading to justifiable speculation regarding his future with the team. 

Harris, whom the Steelers selected in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Alabama, has racked up an impressive 3,269 rushing yards along with 22 rushing touchdowns, 866 receiving yards, and six receiving touchdowns. He was also named to the Pro Bowl in 2021. 

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