The Los Angeles Chargers opened their 2025 season with a strong 3-0 record but have since dropped back-to-back games to NFC East opponents, first falling to the New York Giants and then losing 27-10 to the Washington Commanders.
The situation worsened on Monday when head coach Jim Harbaugh revealed that rookie running back Omarion Hampton, who exited the game over the weekend against Washington, suffered an ankle injury. Hampton will be placed on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least four weeks before the team can potentially open a 21-day window for his return.
Hampton now becomes the second running back on the Chargers roster to suffer a significant injury.
Najee Harris, who the team signed in the offseason, suffered a season-ending Achilles injury on Sept. 21. With Hampton now sidelined, the Chargers lose their rookie from North Carolina for at least the next month with the potential for a longer absence depending on his rehab progress.
This leaves Harbaugh with an interesting challenge at the running back position. The remaining options on the depth chart are former Michigan player Hassan Haskins and Kimani Vidal.
On Sunday, Hampton rushed 12 times for 44 yards and added six receptions for 26 yards. Through the Chargers' first five games of the season, Hampton has 66 carries for 314 yards and two rushing touchdowns, averaging 4.8 yards per carry. He has also contributed 20 receptions for 136 yards.
Los Angeles' next four games are against the Miami Dolphins, Indianapolis Colts, Minnesota Vikings, and Tennessee Titans. If Hampton is able to return following the Titans matchup, his first game back would be on Nov. 9 when the Chargers host the Pittsburgh Steelers.
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