The NFL has seen many great running backs, but only one boasts a resume that includes two CFP national championships, Unanimous All-American honors, a First-Team All-SEC selection, and a Doak Walker Award—Pittsburgh Steelers RB Najee Harris. A 2021 NFL Draft pick, Harris has entered free agency this year and is on the verge of landing a massive contract. Curious about which teams are interested and how much he could earn? Let’s dive in!

Harris signed a four-year, $13,047,447 rookie deal with Pittsburgh in 2021, but now, as that contract comes to an end, he’s officially hit free agency. For some, entering free agency at 26 might be a concern—but not for Harris. It’s hardly an issue. He’s built a strong reputation in the NFL, one that will secure his future. Reports (or maybe just rumors) suggest he’s set to land a two-year, $24 million deal this offseason. But how many teams are ready to pay up? One? Two? Let’s see!

Four potential landing spots have opened up for Harris. First up—the Las Vegas Raiders, now tied to Tom Brady. Given their struggles in the run game this season, averaging just 80 yards per game, Harris could fit in perfectly. With their offense already in good shape, adding Harris could be a smart move. Another possible destination? The Minnesota Vikings. They already have star players like Aaron Jones, but the Wilfs are actively evaluating multiple free agents. Although Jones himself received a multi-million dollar offer from Pete Carroll‘s Raiders, he ultimately chose to stay in Minnesota. That might reduce Harris’ chances, but if the Vikings decide to move on from Jones, he could still find his way onto their roster.

The third potential—or rumored—landing spot for Najee Harris is the Dallas Cowboys. Despite the head coach selection controversy, the Cowboys have actively committed to building their team. There are also rumors that Brian Schottenheimer’s squad is eyeing Ezekiel Elliott and Dalvin Cook. However, with the Cowboys ranking low in cap space, making this ‘free-agency’ move would be easier. Of course, if the Steelers change their mind about activating his 1-year extension, he could still call Pittsburgh home next season. But do you know what Harris’ base salary is for the 2025 season?

Harris will earn a base salary of $6,790,000 for the upcoming NFL season, per Spotrac, which is also his cap hit. This makes him financially accessible for teams struggling with cap space. Looking at his performance in the 2024 season, the Steelers No. 22 ranks 7th in rushing attempts with 263 carries for 1,043 yards. While Harris managed to land only two touchdowns, NFL fans are well aware of his strengths and potential on the field. That makes him a versatile running back who can fit into any team. Meanwhile, Harris isn’t the only player the Steelers have in free agency—over 20 other free agents could pose a challenge for the team in the upcoming season.

A Rocky Road Ahead: Najee Harris and 20+ Free Agents Shake Up the Steelers

The Steelers have four key free agents on their roster who played a crucial role in the team’s postseason push during the 2024 season. Despite a mid-season quarterback switch, they kicked off strong, winning 8 of their first 10 games. To recap, both Justin Fields and Russell Wilson were free agents, and the Steelers are still deciding whether to stick with one of them or explore new QB options in free agency.

Let’s dive into the future of Najee Harris’ (potentially) former team, the Steelers, and their roster of free agents. The first category includes unrestricted free agents, and trust me—it’s a big one! This list features some big names like quarterbacks Kyle Allen and Justin Fields, wide receivers Van Jefferson, Scott Miller, and Mike Williams, along with a host of other key players, including offensive linemen Calvin Anderson, James Daniels, and Dan Moore Jr., as well as defensive stars like C.J. Henderson, Donte Jackson, and Cameron Sutton. There’s also a good mix of experienced talent with the likes of Russell Wilson, Isaiah Loudermilk, Tyler Matakevich, and more. It’s a long list, right? But hold on—this is just the beginning! The Steelers have even more free agents in play, and things are about to get even more interesting!

The Steelers have ‘earned rights’ to free agents, and it’s a pretty short list—just two players: center Ryan McCollum and edge rusher Jeremiah Moon. Beyond that, Jaylen Warren finds himself categorized as a restricted free agent, while the team’s street-free agents include cornerback Zyon Gilbert and edge rusher Preston Smith. It might seem like the team’s roster is a patchwork quilt, but despite all the moving pieces, they still managed to deliver impressive results!

While Najee Harris is on the list of free agents, his situation stands out from most of the Steelers’ offensive players. Harris holds the power—if the Steelers move on, he can sign with any NFL team, and his market value far exceeds that of many of his teammates. The ball is in Harris’ court, and the opportunities are endless!