Steelers' New Trade Possibility Gains Steam After Cowboys Have Rumored Interest In RB Najee Harris

The Pittsburgh Steelers stunned fans by opting not to exercise star running back Najee Harris’ fifth-year option just as the deadline loomed. Reports suggested this decision stemmed from a desire to observe Harris's performance in the Arthur Smith offense before committing $6.79 million to him in 2025.

However, declining Harris' option doesn't necessarily signal the Steelers are ready to part ways with him. Yet, it does indicate some uncertainty about his role in their future plans. Speculation has arisen about the Steelers' confidence in Jaylen Warren possibly influencing this decision. While the situation may seem perplexing, Steeler Nation can only trust the organization's judgment.

Adam Crowley dropped a bombshell rumor on the 93.7 The Fan show on Monday morning, suggesting the Dallas Cowboys may be eyeing a trade for Harris. While cautioning that the credibility of the journalists behind these rumors may be questionable, Crowley did affirm their access to sources.

"So here's the hot, hot, hot Steelers trade rumor. It comes from one guy from Fan Sided and the other guy from Bleacher Report, so I don't know if it's the most credible thing. I also don't know if it's not, because both of those guys say they have Steelers sources, and the rumor is this: The Dallas Cowboys could be interested in trading for Najee Harris."

Crowley chuckled at the notion of trading away Harris, a sentiment likely shared by many Steelers fans who caught wind of the rumor. It's widely agreed that the Steelers are stronger with Harris on the team than without him. Nonetheless, Crowley went on to unveil the potential benefits the rumored trade might offer the Steelers in exchange for Harris.

“I don’t think that you get much in return for Najee Harris. The report here is that it would be like a fourth-round pick for next year. That’s not going to do it for me… I don’t think you are a better football team without Najee Harris this year.”

Trading away Harris for a fourth-round pick wouldn't be the wisest move for the Steelers. While Harris is slated to become a free agent after this season, the Steelers have yet to finalize their decision on retaining him. If he lives up to the expectations and has a standout season, his market value will likely soar, potentially leading to his departure. Conversely, if he struggles to adapt to the new system, the Steelers will be even less inclined to retain him.

There's also the possibility that Harris maintains a consistent level of performance, having an above-average year, which could facilitate negotiations for an easy contract extension. Throughout his three seasons in the NFL, Harris has been an incredibly dependable asset for Pittsburgh. He has surpassed the 1,000-yard rushing mark in each season and earned a Pro Bowl selection in his rookie year. In 2023, he carried the ball 255 times for 1,035 yards and eight touchdowns. With his tough, elusive running style, Harris is expected to remain a valuable asset in Smith's revamped offensive scheme.

Steelers’ Jaylen Warren Set For A Career Year In 2024

Harris isn't the only one poised to benefit from Smith's arrival. Warren, who emerged as an undrafted free agent, has clearly established himself as an explosive running back. In 2023, he logged 149 carries for 784 rushing yards and four touchdowns, a significant increase from his 2022 stats of 77 carries for 379 yards and one touchdown. 

This notable uptick in workload suggests he'll likely play an even larger role in 2024, especially in a more tailored offensive scheme under their new offensive coordinator. Smith's offensive style has a track record of amplifying running backs' performances, as evidenced by his tenure with the Tennessee Titans and Derrick Henry's success.

While Warren has garnered considerable praise and proven himself as a dependable back, the notion of maintaining a dynamic duo with both Warren and Harris is crucial for the Steelers. Their synergy is evident: when one excels, the other benefits. Separating them could potentially diminish their effectiveness as solo backs.