The Uncertain Future of Najee Harris
Najee Harris, the star running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers, finds himself at a pivotal crossroads as he prepares to hit unrestricted free agency next week. After an impressive 2024 season where he played under the franchise tag, Harris’s future with the team is now uncertain. General Manager Omar Khan, during a media session at the NFL combine, left the door open for Harris’s potential return to the Steelers in 2025. However, the likelihood of the veteran running back departing Pittsburgh this offseason remains high. Harris’s consistent performance and durability make him a highly sought-after player, and several teams are expected to vie for his services.
Why the Dallas Cowboys Might Be the Perfect Fit
The Athletic’s Mike Jones believes that the Dallas Cowboys are in a strong position to sign Harris, predicting that he will be a top target for the organization. Jones argues that Dallas’s neglect of the running back position last offseason was a significant misstep by owner Jerry Jones. This oversight may have contributed to the Cowboys’ offensive struggles, and the team is now in a position to rectify this error. With a new head coach, Brian Schottenheimer, and a seasoned quarterback, Dak Prescott, the Cowboys are looking to bolster their offense. Harris, with his physical running style and proven reliability, could be the missing piece that transforms Dallas’s offense into a formidable unit.
Najee Harris’s Consistent Performance
Throughout his first four seasons with the Steelers, Harris has been a consistent and reliable force. At 26 years old, he has recorded over 1,000 rushing yards in each of those years, an impressive feat considering the Steelers’ often inconsistent offensive line. His selection to the Pro Bowl during his rookie campaign in 2021 underscores his talent and potential. While Harris isn’t the most explosive playmaker and can be inefficient at times, his solid production and dependability make him a valuable asset. His ability to grind out tough yards and contribute in the passing game could provide a significant boost to the Cowboys, who have struggled to find a reliable running back in recent years.
Rico Dowdle’s Performance and Free Agency
The departure of Harris would leave a significant void in the Steelers’ backfield, but it also opens up an opportunity for other teams to secure his services. Rico Dowdle, who played well for the Cowboys in 2024, is also a free agent and may seek a more lucrative contract elsewhere. Despite Dowdle’s solid contributions, Harris’s experience and production would represent a significant upgrade for Dallas. By signing Harris, the Cowboys could alleviate some of the pressure on Prescott and the passing attack, creating a more balanced and dynamic offense.
Projected Free Agency Contracts
As Harris enters free agency, he is expected to command a significant contract. Spotrac projects that the former Alabama standout will sign a three-year deal worth $27.5 million, with an average annual salary of around $9.2 million. Pro Football Focus, on the other hand, believes Harris could receive a more lucrative offer of $34 million over three years, with $22.5 million guaranteed and an average salary of $11.5 million per year. These projections highlight Harris’s market value and the importance teams place on a reliable running back. With $54 million in cap space, the Cowboys appear well-positioned to sign Harris and address other pressing needs on their roster.
The Broader Implications for the Steelers and Cowboys
The potential departure of Harris from the Steelers could have far-reaching implications for both teams. For the Steelers, losing Harris would be a significant blow, forcing them to seek a replacement and potentially restructuring their offensive strategy. Meanwhile, the Cowboys stand to gain a cornerstone player who could revitalize their offense and provide Prescott with a reliable target. Khan’s decision will be closely watched, as it will shape the Steelers’ future and could signal a shift in their approach to building a competitive roster. For the Cowboys, signing Harris could be a crucial move in their quest to return to prominence in the NFC.
