The Chargers and former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris agreed Monday on a one-year contract worth as much as $9.25 million, according to multiple reports that cited unnamed sources. Harris would replace Gus Edwards, who was released earlier in the day.
Harris, 27, rushed for 1,000 yards or more in each of his four seasons with the Steelers, averaging 3.9 yards per carry, and started 68 of 68 games in the NFL after a standout college career at Alabama. He rushed for 1,043 yards and six touchdowns this past season with Pittsburgh.
The Chargers signed Edwards and J.K. Dobbins to two- and one-season contracts during the offseason of 2024. Edwards had 365 yards and four touchdowns in 11 games and Dobbins had a career-best 905 yards and a career-tying nine touchdowns in 13 games.
Dobbins is a pending unrestricted free agent who is said to be testing the open market when the signing period begins at Wednesday at 1 p.m. PT.
Coach Jim Harbaugh and General Manager Joe Hortiz were determined to have a stronger ground game in their second seasons with the Chargers. Harris could deliver as a more durable running back. He has rushed for 4,312 yards and 28 touchdowns during his four seasons in the NFL.
Harbaugh nearly recruited Harris to the University of Michigan as a high school standout in the Bay Area town of Antioch. Harris decided instead to play for Nick Saban at Alabama, helping the Crimson Tide win two national championships. The Steelers picked him in the first round of the 2021 draft.
Harbaugh left Michigan to coach the Chargers in January 2024.
Harris was a Pro Bowl selection in his second season with the Steelers.
Earlier Monday, the Chargers checked off the most important item on their to-do list by re-signing outside linebacker Khalil Mack to a one-year, $18 million deal. Along with re-signing center Bradley Bozeman, defensive lineman Teair Tart and punter JK Scott, the team also reportedly agreed to terms with former Steelers cornerback Donte Jackson on a two-year, $13 million deal.