The Los Angeles Chargers have their franchise quarterback in Justin Herbert, but head coach Jim Harbaugh starts everything with the run. Harbaugh loves to have a running back who can bang between the tackles, take swing passes on the outside, and have the flat-out speed to run sweeps while having the cutback ability to run traps and go against the grain.
He believes he has that back in Omarion Hampton.
Will Omarion Hampton Play Against the Rams?
Harbaugh has already clarified that he’s playing his starters against the Rams. Khalil Mack and Derwin James are the only starters being held back, meaning that Hampton is sure to see some snaps, more than likely just for the first one or two series.
The Chargers are expecting an immediate impact from Hampton. The North Carolina product was outstanding in 2024.
Omarion Hampton is yet another reason why you don’t need to draft a RB inside the damn Top-15 (Yes Even Ashton Jeanty)
6’1″ 220+ with hands and wheels. Hampton is a certified stud. David Johnson 2.0 in the making. #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/NzXKvFMvgX
— Ray G (@RayGQue) December 1, 2024
“Having amassed 3,164 yards and 30 touchdowns over the past two seasons, Hampton has the tools to be an impact starter as a volume back in the NFL. At 6’0″, 221 pounds, his size and physicality stand out as separating traits, but he brings even more to the table,” PFSN’s Alex Kennedy wrote in a scouting report before the draft.
“Hampton’s speed and burst, when he’s able to find a hole, is borderline special for his size, and he has the vision and spatial awareness to tempo his runs and create second-level windows with his footwork. Additionally, while he’s not as productive as others in the receiving phase, he undoubtedly has enough in his toolbox to take short passes for RAC.”
He only has two carries for nine yards in the preseason, but Harbaugh has to be chomping at the bit to let his prized running back loose on NFL defenses.
How Could Najee Harris’ Injury Impact Hampton’s Role?
Hampton entered camp just behind veteran running back Najee Harris on the depth chart. However, a fireworks accident injured one of Harris’s eyes, making him questionable to start the season.
This situation has created an opening for Hampton to seize the lead back role. Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman says that even if Harris cannot start the season, Hampton would still be in a rotational role.
Greg Roman said that even if Najee Harris isn’t ready to go Week 1, RB Omarion Hampton will rotate with another back. Who that other back is, Roman says is wide open.
— Kris Rhim (@krisrhim1) August 12, 2025
One possibility for that rotation could be undrafted rookie free agent Raheim Sanders. He led the Chargers with 10 carries and a touchdown against the Saints last week. If Hampton is held back as expected, Sanders could be given a chance to seize a role in the Chargers’ running game.
The Chargers and Rams kick off at SoFi Stadium on Saturday at 7 p.m. ET.
