The Los Angeles Chargers entered free agency with the second-most cap space of any team in the league. Leading up to the start of the negotiating period, the Bolts created even more cap flexibility by releasing Joey Bosa and Gus Edwards.
Edwards' departure meant that the Chargers would likely prioritize signing a running back in free agency. On Monday, GM Joe Jortiz and head coach Jim Harbaugh did exactly that.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the Chargers were signing talented running back Najee Harris to a one-year, $9.25 million deal.
NFL News: Chargers Sign RB Najee Harris in Day 1 of Free Agency
Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Greg Roman like to run the ball as much as any coach in the league. They relied heavily on the JK Dobbins-Gus Edwards pairing last season to move the ball. Whether the Chargers will continue the committee approach or if they see Harris as a workhorse running back remains to be seen.
Harris may not have the explosive play ability of some of his elite rusher brethren, but he is as durable and consistent as they come. Throughout his four-year career, he hasn't missed a single game and went over 1,000 yards each season. In fact, his statistical line from each season is remarkably consistent.
Unlike Dobbins, the former Steelers playmaker is more of a high-floor, low-ceiling type of player. His grinding playstyle could complement Dobbins perfectly, but whether the Bolts plan on bringing back the runner-up for the Comeback Player of the Year award remains to be seen.
The arrival of Harris certainly makes Dobbins' free agency that much more interesting. While Roman and Harbaugh would presumably want to keep him around after his breakout season, it wouldn't be shocking for the Chargers to let him walk if the price tag gets too high. Now that they have Harris, it's not of critical importance to retain Dobbins.
This puts the ball in Dobbins' court. Will the former Baltimore Raven accept a team-friendly deal and a lesser role? Whether the Chargers will need to continue revamping their RB room will depend on that answer.