When the Pittsburgh Steelers chose to move on from 2021 first-round pick Najee Harris this offseason, many believed he would have a strong market after four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons to start his career. Instead, he signed with the Los Angeles Chargers on just a one-year, $5.25 million deal that could be worth up to $9.25 million with incentives.
Despite his arrival, the Chargers also added Omarion Hampton in the first round of this year's NFL draft, further clouding Harris' role in the offense. Things continued to spiral for Harris, this time thanks to a fireworks accident that left him with injuries to his face and eye.
It was unclear if the former Steeler would be available to start the season, but the Chargers' initial 53-man roster saw him avoid the NFI (Non-Football Injury) list. That is a strong indication that he could be back as early as Week 1.
Former Pittsburgh Steelers RB Najee Harris looks to make an impact for the Los Angeles Chargers after injury scare
How soon Harris will get significant work is still unknown, but avoiding the NFI designation is huge for his 2025 outlook. Omarion Hampton has looked every bit as good as the Chargers had hoped this summer, but asking him to handle 20-25 touches a game may not be wise.
If there is one thing Harris has shown the ability to do, it's handle a big workload without missing a beat. Outside of his freak injury this offseason, Harris has been remarkably durable, starting and playing in all 68 possible regular-season games.
He lacks the burst and vision that Hampton possesses, but he can grind out yards and occasionally break enough tackles to create an explosive play. Giving him the dirty work carries and keeping Hampton fresh could be the perfect strategy.
Will he continue his streak of 1,000-yard seasons? Probably not, but he could pair with Hampton to be one of the best running back duos in the league. It's not quite the traditional thunder and lightning tandem that teams often try to build, but it could be a big year on the ground for the Chargers if both of these backs stay healthy.