The Steelers have declined to pick up the fifth-year option on outside linebacker Jarvis Jones, per multiple reports.
The deadline for picking up the options on 2013 first-round picks is midnight Monday. If the Steelers were debating the option or potentially negotiating a long-term deal with Jones is unclear.
The option would have paid Jones $8.4 million in 2017, so the Steelers declining it makes financial sense.
The two sides can still negotiate a long-term deal. His rookie contract will now expire following the 2016 season.
Jones started 15 games in 2015 and had his best season, recording two sacks, a forced fumble and an interception. He has started 26 of 36 career games and has just five sacks in three seasons.
