Najee Harris Set to Join the Chargers: What You Need to Know About the Acquired Running Back

The NFL offseason has been heating up, and one of the most significant rumors to surface has been the potential departure of Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris to the Los Angeles Chargers. According to sources, Harris is set to join the Chargers on a one-year deal worth up to $9.25 million, a move that could potentially shake up the Chargers' backfield and impact the team's chances in the upcoming season. In this article, we'll dive into the details of Harris's expected deal with the Chargers and what this means for the Steelers and the rest of the league.

The Steelers have been looking to shake up their backfield after a disappointing 2022 season, and Najee Harris has been at the center of the attention. With a plethora of talented running backs vying for playing time, the Steelers' coaching staff has been exploring options to upgrade their running game. Harris, a first-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his young career, but has struggled to find consistent production.

The Chargers, on the other hand, have been looking to bolster their backfield after a tumultuous offseason. With Justin Herbert looking to continue his growth as a quarterback, the Chargers need a reliable running back to take pressure off the signal-caller. Josh Allen's departure to the Buffalo Bills last offseason left a void in the Chargers' backfield, and Harris's signing could provide the team with the running game they need to succeed.

Understanding Najee Harris's Contract with the Chargers

According to sources, Najee Harris's one-year deal with the Chargers is worth up to $9.25 million. This figure is a significant payday for the young running back, and could potentially be a make-or-break contract for him. Harris will be competing with Justin Jackson and Joshua Kelley for playing time, but his size, speed, and power make him a formidable opponent in the backfield.

Harris's contract includes a $2 million signing bonus, which will be guaranteed if he makes the team's 53-man roster. He will also earn a base salary of $4 million, with the potential for additional incentives and bonuses. If Harris meets certain production targets, he could earn up to $3 million in additional compensation.

Key Provisions of Najee Harris's Contract with the Chargers

• Base salary: $4 million
• Signing bonus: $2 million
• Guaranteed money: $2 million (if on 53-man roster)
• Potential incentives: Up to $3 million
• Total contract value: Up to $9.25 million

What This Means for the Steelers

The Steelers' decision to let Najee Harris walk to the Chargers is a significant blow to their backfield. Harris was a key player for the Steelers in 2022, rushing for over 700 yards and scoring 7 touchdowns. His departure leaves a void in the backfield, and the Steelers will need to rely on younger players like Jaylen Waddle and Najee Swift to fill the gap.

The Steelers' coaching staff will need to get creative with their backfield play-calling, using a combination of Waddle and Swift to try and replicate Harris's production. However, the Steelers' offense has been plagued by inconsistencies in recent years, and it remains to be seen whether they can adapt to life without their star running back.

What This Means for the Chargers

The Chargers' signing of Najee Harris is a significant coup for the team's front office. Harris brings a level of talent and production that the Chargers have been lacking in the backfield, and his size and speed make him a formidable opponent in the red zone.

Harris's signing also gives the Chargers a clear pecking order in the backfield, with Harris and Jackson competing for the starting role. Kelley will likely be relegated to a backup role, but his experience and versatility make him a valuable asset to the team.

Comparison to Other NFL Running Backs

Najee Harris's signing is significant not just for the Chargers, but for the entire NFL. With the likes of Derrick Henry and Christian McCaffrey dominating the league, Harris's size and speed make him a valuable asset to any team.

Here's a comparison of Harris's signing to other notable running backs:

Benefits of Najee Harris's Signing for the Chargers

• Talented running back: Harris brings a level of production and athleticism that the Chargers have been lacking in the backfield.
• Size and speed: Harris's size and speed make him a formidable opponent in the red zone.
• Clear pecking order: Harris's signing gives the Chargers a clear pecking order in the backfield, with Harris and Jackson competing for the starting role.
• Experienced backup: Kelley provides a valuable asset to the team as a backup running back.

Benefits of Najee Harris's Signing for the Steelers

• Reduced pressure on Najee Swift: Harris's departure reduces the pressure on Najee Swift to carry the load in the backfield.
• Increased depth: The Steelers now have a deeper backfield, with Jaylen Waddle and Naj