NFL free agency has begun to shake out with the first big wave of player signings mostly complete. The fantasy community will now begin to digest the player movement, update rankings and projections, and formulate takeaways. Player movement has been fast and furious. One move that may not have been as flashy as some was former Pittsburgh Steelers first-round draft pick Najee Harris signing a free-agent deal. This past Monday, Harris signed a one-year, $9.25 million contract with the Los Angeles Chargers. Los Angeles released Gus Edwards, and last season’s lead back, JK Dobbins, remains a free agent. It appears Harris will enter the 2024 season as the lead back in the Jim Harbaugh/Greg Roman run-based offense. The RB1 in that offense is a coveted asset and can be fantasy gold.
Najee Harris Best Ball Fantasy Outlook After Signing With Chargers
Najee Harris A Solid RB2 Option on Best Ball Rosters
There are three predominant running back strategies in fantasy formats. Whether you are a robust running back, a hero running back or a zero running back proponent, Najee Harris needs to be on your fantasy radar in best ball leagues. Harris gets knocked in fantasy circles for never being a dominant fantasy running back. However, you can not argue with his consistency. Harris has posted at least 1000 rushing yards in the last four seasons. Naysayers will say that the feat is not what it used to be – fair point – but no other running back has accomplished that! Harris finished 2024 as the overall PPR RB20, averaging 12 points per game with a snap share above 50% in just seven games. He was one of five backs with at least nine explosive runs of 20 or more yards.
Harris currently sits as the RB28 in early best ball rankings with an overall ADP of 85. As previously mentioned, Harris enters the off-season as the lead back in an offensive scheme that lends itself to fantasy production. J.K. Dobbins, in this offense, finished 2024 as a top-24 running back despite missing four games. Harris gives you stability at that second running back spot. There is a path within this offense to a top 12 finish if he can garner the same touchdown equity.
Harris Possesses The Durability That Is Crucial In Best Ball Leagues
Consistency at running back can only be accomplished by playing week in and week out. Najee Harris has done that his entire career at running back. In a position as volatile as running back, he has never missed a game in his four-year playing career. To write that is almost unbelievable. If durability is not the most crucial component in Best Ball Fantasy, it is certainly one of them. There are no mulligans in Best Ball; if a player suffers a season-ending injury, you are not afforded a roster replacement. In Harris, dare we say, that has never been a concern. Najee Harris represents a steady and durable running back option going outside the deadzone in round seven of best ball drafts.
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