Chargers’ Contract with Najee Harris: Key Details
The Los Angeles Chargers’ decision to sign running back Najee Harris to a one-year, $9.25 million deal initially raised some eyebrows. However, as the specifics of the contract have emerged, the rationale behind the move has become clearer.
Contract Breakdown
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Harris’s deal includes a $3.75 million signing bonus and a fully guaranteed $1.5 million base salary. The remaining $4 million is incentive-based, tied to his rushing yardage. This means the Chargers have committed $5.25 million upfront, with the potential for Harris to earn the full $9.25 million based on his performance.
This structure presents solid value for Harris, who has surpassed 1,000 rushing yards in every season of his career. Under offensive coordinator Greg Roman, he is expected to excel, especially with Justin Herbert leading the offense.
Chargers’ Running Back Strategy
Compared to their previous moves at running back, the Chargers’ investment in Harris signals a stronger commitment. They previously signed J.K. Dobbins to a one-year, $1.6 million “prove-it” deal and Gus Edwards to a two-year, $6.5 million contract before releasing him. The higher financial commitment to Harris suggests confidence in his ability to make a significant impact.
A Calculated Move
The structure of Harris’s contract is a strategic decision by the Chargers, securing him for one season while providing a substantial financial incentive for top-tier performance. If he reaches the full $9.25 million, it would likely mean a highly productive year—one that could propel the Chargers into playoff contention.
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