Chargers’ Rookie RB Omarion Hampton Placed on Injured Reserve

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — The Los Angeles Chargers are placing rookie running back Omarion Hampton on injured reserve due to an ankle injury, coach Jim Harbaugh announced Monday. Hampton will miss at least the next four games and will not be eligible to return until Week 10, when the Chargers host the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Hampton sustained the injury during a fourth down play in the third quarter of the Chargers’ 27-10 loss to the Washington Commanders on Sunday. He tripped while running a route and left the field limping, eventually requiring a walking boot on his left foot.

<p“We’re going to miss him for a while,” Harbaugh said. “He’s been playing really well and is a special player.”

The Chargers selected Hampton with the 22nd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This season, he rushed for 314 yards and scored two touchdowns, becoming a pivotal part of the Chargers’ offensive strategy after veteran Najee Harris suffered a season-ending ruptured Achilles in Week 3.

Before his injury, Hampton recorded a career-high 128 yards during a loss against the New York Giants in Week 4. His ability to contribute both in rushing and receiving—20 catches for 136 yards—made him a crucial asset for the Chargers.

As a result of Hampton’s injury, Harbaugh indicated that backups Hassan Haskins and Kimani Vidal will need to step up in the backfield. Haskins has limited experience, with only five carries this season, while Vidal has been elevated from the practice squad in recent games.

“We’ll also explore other options as we have to fill out our running back depth,” Harbaugh stated.

The Chargers already faced significant injury struggles earlier in the season, with key players sidelined, including outside linebacker and both starting tackles. “It’s a tough break, but it’s time for other players to step up,” Harbaugh added.

Following two consecutive losses, the Chargers will look to regroup as they prepare to face the Miami Dolphins next Sunday.