Omarion Hampton was second only to Ashton Jeanty in most rankings of the top running backs in the 2025 NFL Draft. The former North Carolina standout, who is viewed as a true bell-cow back with the size, strength, and production to carry the load at the next level, was selected by the Los Angeles Chargers in the first round.
But just like most elite athletes, Hampton didn’t get here alone. His family, particularly his parents, played a massive role in his rise to this point.
Who Are the Chargers RB Omarion Hampton’s Parents?
Hampton was born on March 16, 2003, in Forest City, N.C., to Leslie Hampton and Cory Chappell. He also has a brother named Jamal, who played cornerback at Chowan University before transitioning into a music career. Athleticism runs in the family — his cousin, Giorgia Lowrance, played wide receiver at North Carolina A&M.
Hampton later moved to Clayton, N.C., during his teenage years and attended Cleveland High School in Johnston County. It didn’t take long for him to make his mark. Hampton dominated at running back for four straight seasons and was named North Carolina’s High School Football Player of the Year as a senior. His standout high school career earned him a four-star recruit rating and attention from top programs around the country.
In the end, Hampton committed to UNC. One of the biggest factors in that decision? The compassion and support shown by head coach Mack Brown, especially during a tough moment in Hampton’s life.
“When Omarion did get hurt with his ankle, I really like that Mack Brown called us right when we were in the hospital to check on him and told us that everything was ok,” Leslie said in 2021. “That really pushed me towards wanting him to go to Chapel Hill. I appreciated coach Mack Brown doing that, calling him and checking up on him.”
While not much is publicly known about his father, Leslie has been a visible and supportive presence throughout Hampton’s football journey. She was even there when he officially signed with the Tar Heels.
Hampton wasted no time making an impact in Chapel Hill. As a freshman, he played in every game and became the first UNC freshman to rush for more than 100 yards in a game since 1946. Over the next two seasons, he took his game to another level, earning All-American honors and becoming a finalist for the Doak Walker Award.
Chiefs-Chargers Week 1 Preview
The division rivalry between the Chiefs and Chargers should be a treat for the São Paulo audience, as the teams have routinely produced competitive games in recent years.
For both teams, it starts at quarterback. Kansas City’s Patrick Mahomes remains one of the league’s best, having already won three Super Bowls before turning 30.
Meanwhile, Justin Herbert has the stats to rank among the game’s top passers but has yet to win a playoff game in his five-year career. He’ll be looking to change that narrative this season, starting with a statement against the Chiefs.
Kansas City’s passing attack will look similar to last season, with wideouts Xavier Worthy and JuJu Smith-Schuster complementing All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce. Their top receiver, Rashee Rice, is out against the Chargers while serving a suspension.
Los Angeles’ receiving corps isn’t much better, though second-year receiver Ladd McConkey is back after an impressive rookie season in which he caught 82 passes for 1,149 yards and seven touchdowns. He’ll be Herbert’s No. 1 target.
Per our metrics, the Chargers will have an upper hand defensively. Coordinator Jesse Minter leads a unit that flies to the ball, anchored by pass rusher Khalil Mack and safety Derwin James.
The Chiefs’ defense graded out at a C last season but will look to improve behind defensive tackle Chris Jones and cornerback Trent McDuffie. Both are among the best at their positions, but need help from a young, unproven supporting cast.
As for the outcome, the Chiefs simply have the Chargers’ number. Los Angeles usually puts up a fight but falls short in the end. That shouldn’t change, even in Week 1 on South American soil.
Prediction: Chiefs 24, Chargers 20
