Pittsburgh Review

LATROBE - While stating there is nothing imminent, Steelers general manager Omar Khan indicated that the team remains open to extensions, trades, or outside signings as they commence training camp at Saint Vincent College.

Several players are entering the final season of their current contracts and are eligible for extensions. These include defensive lineman Cam Heyward, tight end Pat Freiermuth, and running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren. Despite this, Khan expressed satisfaction with the team's current status.

"There's just a really good vibe about the people we have here," Khan said Thursday during his address to the media at the opening of training camp.

However, one day into camp, no significant developments have occurred on these fronts. "I won't talk about any specific negotiation," Khan stated. "But as you guys are aware, this is usually an active time for us, and there's nothing to report right now."

Khan specifically addressed the status of 35-year-old Heyward, last season's NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year winner. Heyward suffered a torn groin in the regular-season opener but returned to play in 11 games and participated in the team's playoff loss in Buffalo. He underwent a second surgery after the season and aims to return to his All-Pro form.

"Last year you know, we had a rough stretch there but I'm confident the way he works and you know cam the person the player obviously and I have no doubt that cam has a lot of football," Khan said. "I think Cam has a lot of football left in him, and I expect him to be here for years to come."

Regarding Harris, whose fifth-year rookie option was not picked up by the team in May, Khan remained optimistic about his future with the Steelers.

"We think the world of Najee," Khan remarked. "And just because that option wasn't exercised doesn't mean that he doesn't have a future here. He represents us well. He's a great football player. He's great to have in the building. I still see a future here with Najee."

Khan emphasized focusing on immediate goals rather than looking ahead to 2025. The Steelers possess significant salary cap space for 2025, providing flexibility for potential moves either this season or next.

"Historically, since I've been in this job we've never gone into the season with a lot of cap room," Khan noted. "We've usually used it. It's there for a reason... We have some flexibility that having all that capital gives us flexibility."

Speculation has circulated about acquiring another veteran wide receiver via trade to pair with emerging star George Pickens. However, discussions on this front appear to have slowed.

"If there's ever an opportunity to upgrade regardless of the receiver room... we're going to look at it," Khan said. "I feel good about that room we have right now... I'm excited about it... And I'm excited to see new quarterbacks working with new receivers."