Welcome to the second installment of the 5th-year options series, which will focus on the 12 players from the 2021 NFL Draft class who had their 5th-year options declined last year, as well as one of the two who were ineligible but still played in the NFL. Note: We will focus on the team that acquired the player who decided to decline their 5th-year options rather than the team that drafted them in the first round.
Also Read: 5th-Year Option Tracker for the 2021 NFL Draft
Washington Commanders: Jamin Davis
Jamin Davis moved from off-ball linebacker to EDGE rusher during the last offseason. Davis had a rough fourth season, not seeing enough playing time with Washington, and ended up being released in late October. He would spend time on the Green Bay Packers’ practice squad for a month and was later picked up by the Minnesota Vikings in late November.
However, Davis’ tenure didn’t last long with the Vikings, as they released him a month later. The New York Jets claimed him off waivers on the last day of December. He finished with 18 tackles, two TFLs, one QB hit, and one sack in nine games.
The New York Jets re-signed Davis to a one-year deal worth $1,337,500.
Kansas City Chiefs: Kadarius Toney
The Kansas City Chiefs released Kadarius Toney at the roster cutdown deadline, and the Cleveland Browns signed him to their practice squad in September. The Browns promoted Toney for three games, but he failed to register a reception, rushed for -4 yards, and fumbled a punt return in Week 14, causing him to be released.
Toney is currently a free agent.
Carolina Panthers: Caleb Farley
The Tennessee Titans released Caleb Farley during the roster cutdown deadline. Farley eventually caught on with the Carolina Panthers, playing nine games, including one start, after initially signing with their practice squad in early October. He recorded 17 tackles and allowed 11 completions on 13 targets for 88 yards, three touchdowns, and a 134.5 passer rating.
Farley is currently a free agent.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Najee Harris
Najee Harris had a solid 2024 campaign and, for the fourth consecutive season, rushed for 1,000 yards. Harris rushed for 1,043 yards on 263 carries and six touchdowns, along with 36 receptions for 283 yards in 17 games. He also had 17 yards on six carries and three receptions for 41 yards in the Wild Card.
The Los Angeles Chargers signed Harris to a one-year deal worth up to $9.25 million.
Conclusion
In conclusion, of the four players listed to have their 5th-year options declined, two remain unsigned, while two signed with other teams. Of the two players to sign elsewhere, only one signed over the league minimum for the 2025 season.
Also Read: What Now? 2021 1st Round Picks With Declined 5th-Year Options Pt 1
