The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering an exciting new era with the melding of their new and returning players. The Steelers added former Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields to pair with coveted running back Najee Harris, and the team has made a decisive move on Harris' contract that mimics their stance on Fields.

Steelers make pivotal contract decision on Najee Harris

Pittsburgh is declining the fifth-year option on Harris, per Ari Meirov. As a result, he will become a free agent following the 2024-25 season. Picking up the option would have cost the Steelers $6.79 million. The move was shocking to some, given Harris' impressive production over his last three seasons.

During the 2023-24 season, Harris amassed 1,035 yards and a career-high eight touchdowns on 255 carries. His numbers were nearly identical to his 2022-23 campaign, which was proceeded by his Pro Bowl-worthy 1000-yard plus rookie season.

It will be interesting to see how Najee Harris performs in his fourth year amid his team's decisive contract move. Like Harris, Justin Fields had a fifth-year contract option for the team to pick up. Pittsburgh similarly decided to decline.

The Steelers would have owed Fields roughly $25.6 million if they proceeded forward. The team still has the option of negotiating with both Fields and Harris during the 2025 offseason. Both stars have promising upside and could benefit the Steelers in the short and long term. Everything depends on how the upcoming season goes.

Fields will split his time behind former Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson. Yet, the team is also pondering experimenting with him on special teams. Pittsburgh is reportedly testing Fields as a kickoff returner, as running back Jaylen Warren explained.

The former Ohio State Buckeye certainly can thrive in open space with his elusive running ability.

Meanwhile, Najee Harris will do all he can to bolster the Steelers' official ground game. He looks to continue his stout production ahead of a pivotal season.

Steelers navigate changes ahead of 2024-25 season

Pittsburgh finished the 2023-24 season with a 10-7 record, which placed them third in the competitive AFC North. As a result, Mike Tomlin's squad was able to squeeze into the NFL Playoffs as a Wild Card. However, the team lost 31-17 to the Buffalo Bills in the first round.

Many pondered if Tomlin would be back, but he put the rumors to rest not too long after the season's end. Still, the Steelers are approaching a crucial season amid big roster changes.

Former quarterbacks Mitch Trubisky, Kenney Pickett, and Mason Rudolph are no longer on the team. Pittsburgh opted to sign Russell Wilson as the team's new offensive leader in addition to trading for Justin Fields.

Wilson is a seasoned professional who looks to be a reliable QB for Pittsburgh. He comes off a year of 3,070 passing yards and 26 touchdowns with the Broncos. Wilson fought hard and helped Denver go on a mid-season run that resulted in their 8-9 record.

Moreover, Wilson will be supported by Fields, who achieved a career-high 2,562 yards and 16 TDS in 2023-24. Fields should be a great addition to the Steelers offense.

Pittsburgh has promising personnel going into the 2024-25 season. Can they capitalize with their members and have an improved postseason showing?