The Dallas Cowboys have been busy this offseason, strategically reshaping their roster to maximize the potential of quarterback Dak Prescott and compete in the ultra-competitive NFC East. With training camp approaching, the Cowboys are once again making headlines, this time as a potential suitor for former first-round pick Najee Harris, who recently signed a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Chargers after four productive seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox highlighted Harris as a trade candidate, noting that the Cowboys could benefit from his reliability to bolster their backfield. While Dallas has already secured options at running back, adding a proven talent like Harris could provide the dynamic edge their offense needs. This article explores the potential trade, Harris’ fit with the Cowboys, and what it means for their 2025 season aspirations.
The Cowboys’ Offseason Overhaul: Building Around Dak Prescott
The Cowboys entered the 2025 offseason with a clear mission: surround Dak Prescott with a versatile arsenal of offensive weapons to elevate their performance in a stacked NFC East. Dallas made significant moves, including acquiring wide receiver George Pickens to complement star CeeDee Lamb, creating one of the league’s most formidable receiver duos. However, the running game has remained a secondary focus for a team that thrives on Prescott’s passing prowess. Despite signing veterans Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders and drafting rookies Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah, the Cowboys’ backfield lacks a proven, every-down workhorse.
This is where Najee Harris enters the conversation. Selected 24th overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2021 NFL Draft, Harris has been a model of consistency, rushing for at least 1,000 yards and six touchdowns in each of his first four seasons. After the Steelers declined to extend his contract, Harris signed a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Chargers. However, with the Chargers drafting Omarion Hampton at No. 22 overall in April, Harris’ long-term role in L.A. is uncertain, making him a potential trade target. Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox suggested that Dallas could pursue Harris as a “high-floor option” to add reliability and balance to their offense.
Why Najee Harris? A Game-Changer for the Ground Game
While the Cowboys’ offense is built around Prescott’s arm and the explosiveness of Lamb and Pickens, a consistent running game could unlock new dimensions. Harris, at 27 years old, brings a rare combination of durability, production, and versatility. His ability to handle a heavy workload—evidenced by his consistent 1,000-yard seasons—would provide Dallas with a reliable ground threat. This is particularly valuable in a division where defenses like those of the Philadelphia Eagles and New York Giants can challenge pass-heavy offenses.
Harris’ skill set aligns well with Dallas’ needs. He’s not only a powerful runner capable of grinding out tough yards but also a capable receiver out of the backfield, which fits offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer’s scheme. A balanced attack featuring Harris could ease the pressure on Prescott, allowing him to exploit defenses with play-action passes and deep shots to Lamb and Pickens. As Kristopher Knox noted, “Being able to establish a ground game might help open up things for Prescott to utilize his new receiver duo.” Harris’ presence could also help control game tempo, keeping Dallas’ defense—led by stars like Micah Parsons—fresh.
The Chargers’ Perspective: Why Harris Could Be Available
The Chargers’ decision to draft Omarion Hampton signals a shift toward youth in their backfield. Harris, on a one-year deal, may be viewed as a stopgap rather than a long-term solution. Hampton, a highly touted prospect from North Carolina, could step into an every-down role sooner rather than later, making Harris expendable if the right trade offer comes along. For the Cowboys, this presents an opportunity to acquire a proven veteran at a potentially reasonable cost, especially since Harris’ expiring contract minimizes long-term financial risk.
Dallas’ interest in Harris, as reported by Bleacher Report, reflects their willingness to explore all avenues to improve their roster. While running back isn’t a glaring need—thanks to the additions of Williams, Sanders, Blue, and Mafah—the Cowboys recognize that Harris’ experience and production could elevate their backfield from serviceable to impactful. His ability to perform under pressure, as demonstrated during his time with the Steelers, makes him an attractive option for a team aiming to contend for a Super Bowl.
The Cowboys’ Backfield: Depth vs. Star Power
The Cowboys have taken a committee approach to their running back position, with veterans Williams and Sanders providing experience and rookies Blue and Mafah offering upside. Javonte Williams, coming off a strong season, brings explosiveness, while Miles Sanders adds speed and versatility. The rookies, meanwhile, represent long-term investments but lack Harris’ proven track record. While this group provides depth, none of these players have matched Harris’ consistent output or ability to carry a heavy workload.
Trading for Harris wouldn’t be a necessity, but it could be a luxury that transforms Dallas’ offense. His addition would give the Cowboys a true RB1, allowing them to mix and match their backfield options based on game situations. For example, Harris could handle early-down carries, while Williams and Sanders contribute in passing situations or as change-of-pace backs. This flexibility would make Dallas’ offense less predictable, a critical factor against top-tier defenses.
The Bigger Picture: Competing in the NFC East
The NFC East is one of the NFL’s toughest divisions, with the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders fielding high-powered offenses and the New York Giants showing defensive improvement. For the Cowboys to emerge as division champions, they must maximize every aspect of their roster. Adding Harris could provide the offensive balance needed to keep pace with teams like the Eagles, who boast a dominant ground game led by Saquon Barkley.
Moreover, Harris’ addition aligns with Dallas’ broader goal of building a roster capable of making a deep playoff run. With Micah Parsons anchoring the defense and Prescott leading an explosive passing attack, a reliable running game could be the final piece of the puzzle. While the Cowboys’ front office has already made significant moves, pursuing Harris demonstrates their commitment to leaving no stone unturned in their quest for a championship.
The Dallas Cowboys’ offseason has been defined by bold moves to enhance their offensive firepower, and the potential pursuit of Najee Harris could be the next chapter in that story. While their backfield is already deep with talent, Harris’ proven production and versatility make him an intriguing trade target. His ability to anchor the ground game could unlock new possibilities for Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and George Pickens, creating a more balanced and unpredictable offense. As training camp looms, the Cowboys’ interest in Harris signals their ambition to compete at the highest level in the NFC East and beyond. Whether or not the trade materializes, Dallas’ proactive approach ensures they remain a team to watch in 2025.