The Pittsburgh Steelers have a few key players set to hit free agency this offseason, including running back Najee Harris. The veteran has been a pivotal piece of the Steelers’ offense since entering the league in 2021 and has never missed a game in four seasons.

Though general manager Omar Khan hasn’t closed the door on Harris returning to the team in 2025, Still Curtain’s Ryan Pawloski urges the Steelers to sign Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones.

“Aaron Jones could be a perfect target in free agency if the Steelers want a tandem in the backfield. Signing a veteran player like Jones could also keep the door ajar on taking a running back in the upcoming draft. The eight-year veteran will be heading into the upcoming campaign at 30. That isn’t too bad on a short-term deal. Add that Jones proved he is not slowing down this past season, and it seems like a nice bet for Pittsburgh. He could be a short-term fix at the running back position while a rookie earns his stripes. Jones would be a perfect weapon for their offense,” Pawloski wrote.

Jones had a productive 2024 campaign, as the veteran tallied a career-high 1,138 rushing yards and had five rushing touchdowns. The 30-year-old also added 51 receptions for 408 yards and two touchdowns through the air.

Though Jones is getting older, the former Day 3 pick has been one of the most consistent running backs in football over the last few seasons and is a versatile player with a ton of playoff experience.

Signing Jones shouldn’t cost too much, as Spotrac projects the former UTEP standout will sign a one-year deal worth $5.5 million on the open market. Pro Football Focus believes the former fifth-round pick will receive a $14 million contract over two seasons with $8 million guaranteed and $7 million annually.

Pittsburgh is estimated to have around $59.7 million in cap space, per Over the Cap, which is plenty of money to sign Jones and also address other needs on the roster.

Losing Harris in free agency would be a major blow, but replacing the 2021 Pro Bowler with Aaron Jones would be a savvy move from Omar Khan. Jones will likely be cheaper to sign than Harris and would give the Steelers similar production in the rushing attack but more of an impact in the receiving game.