As free agency season approaches in less than two weeks, Najee Harris’ camp has shared positive updates regarding his recovery from the Achilles injury that ended his previous NFL season. This progress is closely watched due to the significance of Najee Harris free agency in shaping team backfields for the upcoming year.
Harris’ agent recently released footage showing the running back on a treadmill five months following his Achilles surgery. His swift and steady rehabilitation aligns with his well-known work ethic. Before his injury, Harris had a reputation for reliability, never missing a game since entering the league. His durability helped him become the first player in Pittsburgh Steelers history to record four back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons to start his career. Notably, as a rookie, he broke a longstanding franchise rookie rushing record set by Hall of Famer Franco Harris almost five decades ago.
His consistent performance was attributed to a demanding training routine, including extra practice sessions after team hours. This same rigorous approach appears to have significantly aided his recovery. In the previous season, Harris saw limited action with the Los Angeles Chargers after signing a one-year deal post-Pittsburgh. Despite playing just three games and missing time due to an eye injury, Harris earned solid numbers, averaging 4.1 yards per carry and catching every pass directed to him.
Standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 242 pounds, Harris combines size and power, unafraid of physical contact on the field. While he may lack top-tier speed, his agility allows him to accelerate to the perimeter effectively. He is also an excellent pass protector and receiver out of the backfield, evidenced by a career-high 74 receptions in his rookie season with Ben Roethlisberger as quarterback.
Potential Landing Spot: Seattle Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks represent a strong option if they decide not to bring back Kenneth Walker, who is expected to enter free agency. Walker’s recent Super Bowl MVP performance places him at a higher projected salary, around $36 million over four years, compared to Harris’ estimate of roughly $2.95 million for one year. Harris could replicate many of Walker’s contributions, with the added advantage of being a superior pass-catcher. He also has prior experience sharing carries, which could ease his transition alongside Zach Charbonnet in Seattle’s backfield.
Impact in San Francisco: A Complement to Christian McCaffrey
The 49ers ranked 24th in rushing last season, largely due to lacking a strong complementary back to Christian McCaffrey. Brian Robinson Jr. provided solid production but with limited carries and receptions. Adding Harris could lighten McCaffrey’s workload, improve time of possession, and ease pressure on quarterback Brock Purdy, enhancing the offense’s overall balance.
Kansas City Chiefs Eyeing Stability in Running Back Corps
Kansas City holds significant interest in Harris as both Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt are expected to become free agents. Together, Pacheco and Hunt combined for 1,073 rushing yards last season but with a modest 3.8 yards per carry average and minimal involvement in the passing game. Harris would reunite with a future Hall of Fame quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, aiming to establish a reliable running game to support the Chiefs’ quest to return to elite NFL status.
Houston Texans Seek Experienced Depth Behind Younger Talent
The Texans have a promising young runner in Woody Marks but may pursue depth options amid uncertainty around Joe Mixon and Nick Chubb’s free agency status. Harris could provide solid veteran leadership and bolster Houston’s running attack. His presence may also stabilize the offense to benefit quarterback C.J. Stroud, whose inconsistent performances have hindered the Texans’ playoff advancement.
Denver Broncos Look to Reinforce Ground Game
After finishing mid-pack in rushing last season, Denver is eager to improve, particularly on the outside. With J.K. Dobbins, a free agent, battling injuries, Harris emerges as a potential replacement who could complement rookie receiver-runner R.J. Harvey. Harris’ ability to catch passes out of the backfield and run effectively would allow Harvey to continue excelling in his hybrid role.
Backup Options Draw Interest from Dallas Cowboys and Cincinnati Bengals
Both Dallas and Cincinnati could benefit from deeper running back rosters. The Cowboys’ Javonte Williams led with over 1,200 yards, while backup contributions were minimal. Similar depth issues exist for the Bengals, where Chase Brown broke 1,000 yards; however, other backs logged limited yards. Adding Harris would introduce a proven player capable of enhancing these teams’ ground attacks and rotational schemes.
Najee Harris looking OUTSTANDING 5 months post op from Achilles. Running with ease at 15 mph. @chargers #freeagency #teamwass #LFG pic.twitter.com/LOiUqzt3qn
— Doug Hendrickson (@DHendrickson41) February 23, 2026
