Chargers Rookie RB Omarion Hampton Sidelined on IR Due to Ankle Injury
Los Angeles Chargers Place Rookie Running Back Omarion Hampton on Injured Reserve
In a tough setback for the Los Angeles Chargers, rookie running back Omarion Hampton has been placed on injured reserve due to an ankle injury. Coach Jim Harbaugh announced the news on Monday, indicating that Hampton will miss at least the next four games. His earliest return is projected for Week 10 during a Sunday night matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Details of Omarion Hampton’s Ankle Injury
Hampton sustained the injury during a critical fourth down late in the third quarter of the Chargers’ recent 27-10 loss to the Washington Commanders. In a play where quarterback Justin Herbert faked a handoff to Hampton, he tripped over the foot of Washington linebacker Frankie Luvu while sprinting to the flat, which led to him limping off the field.
Despite a brief attempt to test his ankle on the sideline after receiving treatment in the blue medical tent, Hampton was unable to continue playing. Coach Harbaugh described the incident as an “unfortunate occurrence” but did not disclose specific details about the injury.
Impact on Chargers’ Running Game
Omarion Hampton, selected as the No. 22 pick in the recent draft, had begun to showcase his potential as a key contributor. Notably, he rushed for a career-high 128 yards on 12 carries against the New York Giants, which included a remarkable 54-yard touchdown. From Week 3 to Week 5, Hampton accumulated 17 catches for 122 yards. With running back Najee Harris sidelined for the season due to a torn Achilles, the Chargers had relied heavily on Hampton as their workhorse.
Harbaugh remarked on Hampton’s rhythm, stating, “He has been in a really good rhythm, playing really well. Special player.” However, with both Hampton and Harris now on injury reserve, the Chargers face significant challenges in their backfield.
The Next Steps for the Chargers’ Running Back Corps
Following Hampton’s injury, the Chargers will look to Hassan Haskins to step up as the primary running back. Haskins has recorded 195 career rushing yards, averaging 3.0 yards per carry. Behind him, the Chargers have two practice squad running backs, Kimani Vidal and Amar Johnson. Notably, Vidal has been elevated from the practice squad and contributed 18 rushing yards on four carries against the Commanders.
Harbaugh mentioned, “We’ll look to other avenues as well,” to bolster the team’s running back depth in light of these recent injuries.
Injury Challenges Facing the Chargers
The Chargers have faced a string of unfortunate injuries this season, which has compounded the difficulties in their roster. In addition to losing both starting running backs, the team has been without both starting tackles. Rashawn Slater is out for the season due to a knee injury, while Joe Alt missed the game against the Commanders because of a high ankle sprain. He was seen in a boot during warmups.
Furthermore, starting right guard Mekhi Becton has struggled with multiple injuries and has only participated in 51.3% of the team’s offensive snaps this season. He sustained a hand injury during the last game, limiting his performance to 38 snaps. Additionally, top edge rusher Khalil Mack remains on injured reserve with an elbow injury and is not expected to return until Week 7.
Flipping Adversity into Opportunity
Despite the injury woes, Coach Harbaugh remains optimistic, emphasizing the opportunity for other players and coaches to step up. “It’s just a time to shine for players, for coaches, for everybody in this organization,” he said. “When the going gets tough, the tough get going, and I just look at it as an opportunity to do that.”
