The NFL fifth-year option deadline passed with 18 of the 32 first-round picks in 2021 having their options exercised. Some decisions were more interesting than others.
**What Is the NFL 5th-Year Option?**
After a first-round pick’s third NFL season, their team must decide whether to exercise their fifth-year option. The salary is determined by factors such as Pro Bowl selections.
**6 Most Interesting NFL 5th-Year Option Decisions**
1. **Justin Fields, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers**
– *Option:* Declined
– *Reasoning:* Fields has potential but hasn’t shown enough for a $25.6 million salary. Steelers risk QB uncertainty in 2025.
2. **Najee Harris, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers**
– *Option:* Declined
– *Evaluation:* Harris is solid but hasn’t proven to be a franchise running back.
3. **Kyle Pitts, TE, Atlanta Falcons**
– *Option:* Exercised
– *Analysis:* Falcons roll the dice on Pitts despite a decline in production after an impressive rookie season.
4. **Alijah Vera-Tucker, OL, New York Jets**
– *Option:* Exercised
– *Review:* Vera-Tucker has talent but injury concerns. Jets hope he fulfills potential in 2025.
5. **Odafe Oweh, DE, Baltimore Ravens**
– *Option:* Exercised
– *Risk:* Oweh lacks sacks but has shown potential. Ravens bet on his continued development.
6. **Trevor Lawrence, QB, Jacksonville Jaguars**
– *Option:* Exercised
– *Concerns:* Lawrence has shown promise but needs to prove he’s worth his hefty 2025 salary.
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