A New Era for the Las Vegas Raiders
The 2025 NFL season is set to be a transformative year for the Las Vegas Raiders, marking a fresh start and a new direction for the franchise. The team has undergone significant changes, including the appointment of Pete Carroll as head coach and the recruitment of Chip Kelly from Ohio State to serve as offensive coordinator. These additions signal a shift towards a more dynamic and innovative approach on both sides of the ball. However, the Raiders’ most pressing need remains the quarterback position, a crucial factor that will shape the team’s fate in the upcoming season. While securing a new QB is paramount, other positional needs, particularly running back, cannot be overlooked.
The Running Back Dilemma
In 2024, the Raiders brought in Alexander Mattison to bolster their running back depth and support Zamir White. However, neither player managed to secure a long-term role, leaving the team’s ground game in a state of flux. Mattison is now set to enter free agency, and White will have to fight for a roster spot. The lack of a consistent and reliable running back has been a persistent issue, and the Raiders must address this to build a balanced and effective offense. Ben Rolfe of Pro Football Network has identified Najee Harris as a potential free agent fit, and the reasoning behind this choice is compelling.
Najee Harris: A Proven Commodity
Najee Harris, currently a free agent, stands out as a strong candidate to fill the Raiders’ running back void. While he may not be the most flashy option, his durability and versatility make him an ideal choice. Harris has consistently surpassed the 1,000-yard mark in each of his first four NFL seasons, demonstrating his reliability as a workhorse back. In 2024, he rushed for 1,043 yards and six touchdowns, adding 36 receptions for 283 yards. His ability to contribute both on the ground and through the air is a valuable asset, especially in a Pete Carroll-led system that values a well-rounded offense.
Comparisons and Cultural Fit
Pete Carroll, known for his successful tenure with the Seattle Seahawks, has a history of leveraging powerful running backs to anchor his teams. Marshawn Lynch, who thrived under Carroll in Seattle, serves as a fitting comparison to Harris. Lynch’s early career was less dynamic, but he found his groove in Seattle, becoming a cornerstone of the team’s success. Harris, with his proven track record and similar attributes, could well replicate Lynch’s trajectory in Las Vegas. His toughness and elusiveness, combined with his ability to contribute in the passing game, align perfectly with Carroll’s vision of a robust and versatile backfield.
Financial Feasibility and Team Support
The financial aspect of signing Harris is also attractive. Over the Cap projects the Raiders to have around $100 million in cap space this offseason, making it feasible to offer Harris a substantial contract. Spotrac estimates that Harris could sign a three-year deal with an annual salary of approximately $9.2 million, a reasonable investment given his consistent production and the team’s available resources. Star edge rusher Maxx Crosby has already expressed enthusiasm for the idea of bringing Harris to Vegas. "Why not?" Crosby said. "He’s from the Bay. Najee’s a baller. Anybody that could help when it comes to winning and being a culture guy, a leader, that’s the type of guy I want around. You’ve seen Najee, he’s played four years in the league and has had 1000 yards every season. That alone is impressive. He is a tough (expletive) and hard to tackle, too. I’d love to have a guy like Najee around. Selfishly, he could come to Vegas all day."
Looking Ahead: Building a Dynamic Team
The Raiders are poised to make significant moves this offseason, and adding a player like Najee Harris could be a critical step towards building a more dynamic and formidable offense. Harris’s experience, reliability, and multifaceted skill set make him an excellent fit for the team’s new direction under Pete Carroll and Chip Kelly. With ample cap space and a supportive locker room, the Raiders are in a strong position to attract and retain top talent. As the team continues to evolve, the addition of a proven running back like Harris could provide the stability and leadership needed to lead the Raiders to greater heights in the 2025 season and beyond.
