Jim Harbaugh’s offensive identity is no secret — the new Los Angeles Chargers head coach loves to run the football, and he needs a deep stable of backs to do it. But based on recent moves, the Chargers may be considering a more streamlined approach to their backfield.
In a surprise to some, Los Angeles used its first-round pick on Omarion Hampton, the powerful All-ACC running back out of North Carolina. The selection raised eyebrows, coming just weeks after the team signed former Steelers starter Najee Harris in free agency.
Then came yet another wrinkle. Following the draft, the Chargers placed an unrestricted free agent tender on J.K. Dobbins, their leading rusher from last season. The move gives Los Angeles exclusive negotiating rights with Dobbins if he remains unsigned by the start of training camp.
Los Angeles Chargers Crowded Backfield: Could Najee Harris Be the Odd Man Out in Jim Harbaugh’s Ground Game?
This crowded depth chart has led analysts — including Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox — to speculate that Harris could be the odd man out.
“The Chargers drafted their running back of the future when they took Omarion Hampton with the No. 22 overall pick,” Knox wrote. “They might also be able to bring back 2024 starter J.K. Dobbins, who remains unsigned. Harris would have value on the trade market. While he was never a high-end starter in Pittsburgh, he was a durable high-volume back who topped 1,000 rushing yards in all four of his NFL seasons.”
Currently, Harris is on a one-year, $5.25 million “prove-it” deal — a reasonable price tag for a veteran back with his résumé. Knox suggests teams like the Dallas Cowboys or even a reunion with the Pittsburgh Steelers as potential landing spots if Los Angeles decides to deal him.
But trading Harris may not be so cut and dry.
Despite the presence of Hampton and the hope of retaining Dobbins, Harris offers immediate value as a steady, experienced contributor — something Harbaugh may want as he brings a rookie into the fold and navigates the uncertainty surrounding Dobbins’ injury history. Should Dobbins remain unsigned or go down again, and if Hampton hits a typical rookie wall, Harris would serve as a vital insurance policy.
The Chargers have salary cap room to maneuver and appear committed to running the ball — perhaps with a fresh set of legs leading the way. Still, unless the right offer comes along, don’t be surprised if Harris remains in powder blue come Week 1.
Subscribe to LAFB Network’s Los Angeles Chargers YouTube Channel