The New England Patriots face thinning options at running back and have been linked to former Pro Bowl rusher Najee Harris as a possible free-agent addition.
Bleacher Report analyst Moe Moton named the 28-year-old a potential fit in a Nov. 12 piece on bargain free agents available after the NFL trade deadline.
Harris rushed for more than 1,000 yards in each of his first four seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He totaled 4,312 yards and 28 touchdowns in those years and earned a Pro Bowl nod as a rookie in 2021.
His production has dropped since leaving Pittsburgh. Harris signed with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2025 but tore his Achilles tendon after three games, in which he gained 61 yards on 15 carries.
He joined the New York Giants in August 2026. Harris managed 99 yards on 31 carries across five games with the team before being released on Oct. 20.
The Giants cut him shortly after he voiced frustration over limited touches. No team has signed him since.
Moton wrote that Harris could help a club needing a reliable short-yardage option.
“Harris could be an asset to a team that needs a short-yardage tailback,” Moton wrote.
The analyst highlighted Harris’ size and history of gaining tough yards near the goal line. He suggested the veteran could serve as a No. 2 back behind Corey Kiner while the Patriots wait on injured players.
New England’s backfield is already short-handed for Sunday’s game against the Detroit Lions. TreVeyon Henderson has been ruled out with an illness.
Rhamondre Stevenson suffered a knee injury in the Nov. 8 loss to the Green Bay Packers. He returned to limited practice participation on Thursday and Friday, giving him a chance to play.
Coach Mike Vrabel praised Stevenson’s approach to the injury. “We’re always looking for guys that are looking for ways in as opposed to ways out,” Vrabel said, according to The Boston Globe.
Even if Stevenson suits up, depth remains a concern. Kiner has averaged 4.9 yards per carry in limited work, according to the team’s website. Lan Larison and practice-squad back Terrell Jennings offer further options.
Harris would bring more starting experience than either of those younger players. His career totals stand at 4,472 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns over 76 games.
No contact between Harris and the Patriots has been reported. The connection remains an analyst’s suggestion only.
The team has a bye in Week 11 after the Lions game. That window gives coaches time to evaluate their backfield before deciding on veteran help.
Harris remains available as a free agent. His recent efficiency has been modest, but his earlier track record of volume production and short-yardage work keeps him on the radar for teams dealing with injuries.
