After four solid seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers, running back Najee Harris is officially moving to the Los Angeles Chargers, agreeing to a one-year deal worth up to $9.25 million, as reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter. The announcement on March 11, 2025, caps off Harris transition as one of the most anticipated signings of the free agency period.
The Chargers, finding themselves with substantial cap space totaling almost $94 million, were eager to lock down Harris as they search for stability and skill within their backfield following the uncertainty surrounding J.K. Dobbins and the release of Gus Edwards. With Dobbins set to enter free agency, the addition of Harris eases concerns by providing a proven lead runner.
Harris, who was Pittsburgh's first-round pick at No. 24 overall from the 2021 NFL Draft, has consistently proven to be a formidable force. Over his four seasons, he became one of the few running backs to rush for over 1,000 yards each year, tallying 4,312 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns during his time with the Steelers. His rookie season set the tone for what would be a reliable football career, finishing with 1,200 rushing yards, seven touchdowns, and contributing significantly to the passing game with 467 receiving yards and three scores.
Despite his overall success, Harris faced scrutiny concerning his yards per carry, averaging under 4.0 yards throughout his time with Pittsburgh, with the lowest at 3.93 during the past three seasons. Nevertheless, durability has been one of Harriss defining traits; he has yet to miss a regular season game to date, showcasing resilience and endurance at what many regard as the most physically demanding position on the field.
"I was disappointed for a minute," Harris reflected on the Steelers decision to decline his fifth-year option back in May 2024, noting the difficult transition he now faces. With the clock ticking down to free agency, he knew his opportunities with Pittsburgh were coming to a close. His productivity remained relatively constant, but the emergence of fellow running back Jaylen Warren—who averaged 4.8 yards per carry—pushed Harris to the sidelines more frequently especially as the Steelers transitioned to bringing Warren onto the field during passing downs.
Though his time with the Steelers was certainly noteworthy, Harriss capabilities will be tested under Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Greg Roman. The Chargers have embraced running as part of their offensive identity, ranking 10th with a 41.3% run play percentage last season. Harris will very much be seen as the centerpiece of their rushing attack.
The challenges facing the Chargers are multifaceted. While there's potential for Harris to thrive; he will need to significantly improve his efficiency on the field. Evaluators have pointed out his need for substantial touches to make up for the lack of explosive plays. Several observers believe playing with Justin Herbert, who commands attention from opposing defenses, will afford him the opportunity to face lighter boxes, thereby increasing his effectiveness.
Notably, Harris turns 27 on March 9, 2025, which raises questions about longevity and the typical running back lifespan, often regarded as one of the shortest. Nonetheless, investing $9.25 million for the upcoming season feels like calculated gambit on the Chargers part, giving him the chance to produce at high level again.
Nearing the start of the 2025 season, Harris sits poised to lead the Chargers backfield as they prepare for what many hope will be his breakout moment. Harris's durability and physicality could provide the added power and depth this franchise needs to make legitimate postseason pushes.
The departure of Harris may leave Pittsburgh reevaluated for what it seeks at the running back position. His absence not only shifts dynamics but places newfound pressure on Warren to step up, as the Steelers continue to explore both the draft and free agency. Harris exit adds him to the growing list of first-round selections by the Steelers who have failed to secure multi-year contracts beyond their rookie contracts—a list including names like Chase Claypool and Devin Bush.
While Harris prepares to start this new chapter, anticipation grows not just for the Chargers but also around the Steelers' remaking of their running game for the path forward. Pittsburgh now leans on Warren, who appears to be Mr. Reliable to help bridge the gap and take control of the backfield.