The Los Angeles Chargers have released a concerning update on running back Najee Harris’s health as the player deals with a freak injury he sustained in a fireworks accident. The Chargers’ starting running back role is wide open after the team added Harris and first-round draft pick Omarion Hampton this offseason.
After the latest news, though, the rookie could be getting more work in 2025 than first thought.
Los Angeles Chargers Give Worrying Update on Najee Harris After Fireworks Injury
Harris was injured in a July 4 fireworks incident in which several other people were also injured. According to Harris’s agent, the running back suffered “a superficial eye injury,” an explanation which some analysts were unconvinced by.
NBC analyst Mike Florio suggested that there may be more to the story than was first revealed, including potential legal liability for the accident. The analyst also noted that Harris would be subject to a physical with training camp just around the corner.
Sure enough, on Thursday, July 17, the opening day of Chargers training camp, the team announced that Harris is being placed on the Active/Non-Football Injury list.
We have placed RB Najee Harris on Active/Non-Football Injury.
— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) July 17, 2025
The designation means that Harris won’t be practicing for now, but it does not necessarily mean he will miss game time during the season. It’s a disappointing outcome for all involved, though, especially Harris, who was looking forward to a fresh start on his new team.
Further details of the injury have yet to be revealed, and no timeline has been set for Harris’ recovery. The initial statement from the player’s agent suggested that he would be ready for the season, but these issues have a habit of dragging on.
Harris Injury Opens Door to Omarion Hampton
One beneficiary of Harris’ injury, however, is Hampton. The former North Carolina running back was selected 22nd overall by the Chargers in the 2025 NFL Draft. That draft capital would usually suggest a lead role on the team, but Harris’s presence hinted at a split backfield.
With Harris sidelined, at least in the short term, Hampton will have the chance to show why he should be the starting running back for the team. His blend of power and explosiveness makes him an ideal fit for Jim Harbaugh’s team, while Harris was expected to handle short-yardage situations.
Harris only signed a one-year deal with the Chargers after the Steelers decided to part ways with the Pro Bowler. In his four seasons on the team, Harris rushed for 1,000+ yards in each. He hasn’t had a season with fewer than six touchdowns, as he’s played in all 17 games in those four seasons.
There remains hope that the former Steeler will be ready for the season, but fans will be excited by the prospect of Hampton, regardless.
