NFL Rumors: Jim Harbaugh Gives Up on $5.25M Free Agent After Issuing Bold Promise for Justin Herbert

Jim Harbaugh‘s offensive style is pretty straightforward — the new head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers focuses on the ground game, and he definitely needs a solid lineup of running backs to make it happen. But recent moves hint that the Chargers might be shifting gears with a more focused backfield strategy. In a move that caught a few folks off guard, Los Angeles snagged Omarion Hampton, the impressive All-ACC running back from North Carolina, with their first-round pick. This pick raised quite a few eyebrows, especially since it came just weeks after the team brought in Najee Harris, the former Steelers starter, through free agency. So, why did Jim Harbaugh decide to let go of Najee Harris?

It looks like the Chargers’ backfield is turning into a full-on traffic jam, and folks like Kristopher Knox over at Bleacher Report think Harris might be the one getting pushed to the curb. He’s on a $5.25 million prove-it deal — kind of a head-scratcher, right? Knox even said it straight: “The Chargers drafted their running back of the future when they took Omarion Hampton with the No. 22 overall pick.” That’s basically saying, “Hey Najee, thanks for coming, but your replacement’s already here.”

And to make things even more crowded, there’s still chatter about J.K. Dobbins possibly coming back as the starter for 2024. He’s still out there, just waiting for a team to assemble around him. So yeah, Najee could end up being the odd man out. But don’t count him out just yet — the dude’s no slouch. Sure, he didn’t exactly light up highlight reels in Pittsburgh, but he’s been a rock. Over 1,000 rushing yards every single season in the league? That’s consistency you can bank on.

Harris is on a one-year deal—cheap by veteran standards—so he’s not eating up much cap space. Kristopher Knox floated the idea that Harris could have trade value, possibly to a team like the Cowboys, who need help in the run game. Maybe even a reunion with the Steelers.

But moving Harris won’t be easy. Even with Omarion Hampton coming in and J.K. Dobbins potentially rejoining the team, Harris brings valuable experience—especially when helping a rookie adjust to the league. And let’s not forget, Dobbins has had more injuries than a Phase Four Marvel subplot. If he goes down again and Hampton hits the rookie wall—as many do—Harris could end up being the steady hand that keeps the backfield together.

The Chargers have some cap flexibility and are clearly committed to the run. Unless a trade offer they can’t refuse comes in, don’t be surprised if Najee Harris is still wearing powder blue come Week 1. Like it or not, he might be the veteran presence they didn’t realize they needed.

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