The NFL offseason is at its most hectic, and teams around the league are beginning to finalize their rosters for the upcoming campaign. One of those franchises is the Los Angeles Chargers, who have announced the addition of a former Pittsburgh Steelers player under head coach Mike Tomlin as a key weapon for quarterback Justin Herbert.
Los Angeles is looking to bolster its ground attack after the departures of Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins. They took advantage of Tomlin‘s decision to pass on a running back who left the Steelers to join the Chargers.
Herbert’s new key weapon in the Chargers’ offense is none other than running back Najee Harris, who has agreed to a one-year contract worth up to $9.25 million. The deal is now official. A few hours ago, the Steelers decided to release the player who has already found a new destination.
Why did the Steelers release Harris?
Harris needed a contract extension to remain in Pittsburgh, but the black & gold franchise chose not to offer him a new deal and the 27-year-old became an unrestricted free agent, a status that did not last long as the Chargers quickly signed him.
Najee Harris of the Los Angeles Chargers
Harris’ performance in the NFL
Harris was a major weapon on offense for the Steelers. Pittsburgh’s decision to pass on him was an eye-opener, as the current Chargers running back has rushed for over 1000 yards in each of his four NFL seasons. In the 2024 NFL, he accumulated 1043 yards and contributed six touchdowns.
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Harris can be a key weapon for Herbert
Quarterback Justin Herbert will add an impact player to the offense next season. Harris’ effectiveness will depend on how head coach Jim Harbaugh utilizes him in the Chargers’ scheme. The 1,000 yards per campaign mark is an interesting starting point to balance the attacking side of the team, especially if the former Steelers running back will be involved in the aerial game.
