The Kansas City Chiefs are at a critical juncture as they enter the 2025 free agency period, particularly regarding their running back situation. With both Kareem Hunt's contract status uncertain and Isiah Pacheco facing the final year of his deal, it's clear that the Chiefs need to explore their options to strengthen their offensive lineup.
The lack of stability at the running back position is worrisome. Hunt is a pending free agent, meaning the Chiefs must either negotiate a new contract or look elsewhere. Pacheco forms an additional concern, as his injury history suggests he could struggle to handle a full workload. If Hunt doesn't return, Kansas City would have to look for a reliable replacement, especially as they aim to maintain their strong offense under the leadership of Patrick Mahomes.
Why Najee Harris Could be the Answer
One prominent option on the Pittsburgh Steelers running back market is Najee Harris, a former first-round draft pick who has consistently demonstrated his capability on the field. He has surpassed 1,000 rushing yards each season during his four-year tenure with Pittsburgh, displaying both reliability and resilience as a player. According to Pro Football Network’s Sterling Xie, this makes Harris a top free agent consideration for the Chiefs.
While he might not be the flashiest choice, Harris has a history of production that cannot be ignored. In his rookie season alone, he established himself as a multifaceted weapon by catching 74 passes, proving he can contribute in both the rushing and passing game. This versatility could be a critical asset for the Chiefs as they look to continue supporting their star quarterback.
Assessing His Performance and Potential Fit
Despite his achievements, Harris did face challenges during his time with the Steelers. His average of 3.9 yards per carry is somewhat underwhelming, but this was largely due to situational factors rather than a lack of skill. The Steelers' offensive line struggled throughout his tenure, and their passing attack repeatedly failed to spread defenses thin, allowing opponents to focus entirely on stopping Harris.
Transitioning to Kansas City would present Harris with an entirely different scenario. Under the guidance of Patrick Mahomes, who commands significant respect from defenses, Harris may find that he has more room to operate. This dynamic could unlock his potential, enabling him to achieve career-best numbers as a Chief. The opportunity to work with one of the league's top-tier quarterbacks makes Kansas City a tantalizing option for anyone on the free-agent market.
Cost Considerations for Harris
At the heart of any potential deal for Harris is the financial aspect. Spotrac projects that any team interested in signing him will need to be prepared to offer a three-year contract worth $27.4 million. With these figures in mind, it’s crucial to evaluate whether the Chiefs will be willing to make such an investment in a running back.
While the potential for adding talent like Harris is appealing, history shows that the Chiefs have often prioritized financial flexibility in their roster-building strategy. The question remains whether they view Harris worth the projected price tag, especially considering other areas of need on the squad.
What’s Next for the Chiefs?
The Chiefs will need to balance their needs against their budget as they make key decisions this offseason. The possible addition of a player like Harris could bolster their offense significantly, but it will require navigating the complexities of the NFL free agent deals landscape.
Exploring alternative options is also critical. They could decide to invest in younger, less pricey players or perhaps even look to the draft to strengthen their running back position. Each decision made will have a profound impact on the upcoming season and the ability of Kansas City to sustain its high-powered offense.
Final Thoughts
Addressing the running back situation is a pivotal move for the Kansas City Chiefs this offseason. With Najee Harris on the horizon as a viable candidate, the organization has an opportunity to enhance its offensive capabilities significantly under Patrick Mahomes. How the Chiefs navigate their free agency decisions will shape their approach heading into the new season. Fans will undoubtedly be watching closely to see if the bold maneuvering pays off in a deep playoff run and potentially another Super Bowl appearance.