Bengals linked to ex-Steelers Pro Bowl RB as 'bargain bin' free-agent target

The Cincinnati Bengals made a lot of changes to the roster this offseason as they're in pursuit of a return trip to the playoffs and another Super Bowl run.

However, the bulk of their moves have come on the defensive side of the ball. Dexter Lawrence, Boye Mafe, Bryan Cook, and others are all defensive pickups. So, why not make their next move on the offensive side of the ball?

Moe Moton of Bleacher Report linked the Bengals to a free-agent running back, formerly of the Pittsburgh Steelers, in Pro Bowl veteran Najee Harris as a "bargain bin" option this offseason.

Bengals linked to Najee Harris in free agency

"On the back end of his prime years, Harris can still be an early-down contributor in a running back duo or platoon," Moton writes. "... Potential suitors: Cincinnati Bengals, Green Bay Packers."

There is nothing wrong with relying on Chase Brown to be the lead back in Cincinnati. He's a fantastic option, and proved he's good enough to lead the way the last few years.

But, as the Bengals head towards the 2026 season with Super Bowl aspirations, limiting the wear-and-tear on Brown might not be such a bad idea.

Samaje Perine is their current backup option, and he's not terrible. But Tahj Brooks, Gary Brightwell, Kendall Milton, Jamal Haynes, and Kentrel Bullock are their other options.

MORE: Browns’ extended QB competition is a good omen for Shedeur Sanders to win QB job

If the Bengals want to add a bit better depth behind Brown, then Harris wouldn't be the worst option. He's a 6-foot-1, 242-pound running back who could be a goal-line option or change-of-pace back to Brown.

Harris had 61 rushing yards on 15 attempts for the Chargers in 2025 before a season-ending injury ended his campaign early. But, before that, he played in 17 games in four straight-seasons for the Steelers.

He never fell below 1,000 rushing yards in a season, and always had at least six touchdowns as well during his Steelers stint. He could also be used as a receiver, with 183 career receptions for 1,174 yards and six touchdowns in five seasons.

The 28-year-old Harris likely won't cost much to sign at all and would be a nice depth complement to Brown and Perine. Moton linked the Bengals to Najee Harris, and the fit makes a bit of sense as Cincinnati could use another veteran depth option in the backfield.

More NFL news:

• Deebo Samuel could be perfect addition to Falcons' offense in 2026
• Patriots urged to sign Jonnu Smith to reunite with Mike Vrabel
• Broncos’ signing of J.K. Dobbins receives criticism from ESPN analyst
• Why the Chicago Bears should sign Taylor Decker before training camp
• Seahawks ‘Achilles Heel’ is running back problem after losing Kenneth Walker III
• Cowboys captain C.J. Goodwin retires from NFL after 136 career games