Running back Omarion Hampton’s inspiration to be a top football player growing up stemmed from his older brother. Currently considered one of the best running backs in the 2025 NFL Draft and a potential first-round pick, Hampton learned his blocking skills from playing with his big brother.
Here’s everything you need to know about their bond.
Who Is 2025 NFL Draft Prospect Omarion Hampton’s Brother?
Hampton is the son of Leslie Hampton and Cory Chappell and the younger brother of Jamal. Jamal played college football as a cornerback at Chowan University, a Division II school in Murfreesboro, N.C.
He was listed as a freshman at Chowan in 2018, standing 6 feet tall and weighing 180 pounds. Before that, he played for Cleveland High School. Jamal’s football skills helped spark his younger brother’s passion for the sport from the time they used to play together. Hampton could credit him for both his speed and his powerful blocking.
“Oh man, he was always chasing after his brother (Jamal) when he was younger,” Chappell said, per 247Sports. “I have film. I coached him first starting flag and all the way up. He ran and ran to the outside and when you’re young you hit that sideline and you just go with what you know and he’s been doing that since he was little.”
Jamal currently works as a musician.
Hampton’s College Career, Draft Projection
A North Carolina native, Hampton attended Cleveland High School in Johnston County, where he starred at running back for four seasons. He earned the Gatorade North Carolina Football Player of the Year award and was named the state’s Mr. Football, finishing as a four-star recruit.
Staying loyal to his hometown, Hampton committed to the North Carolina Tar Heels despite other schools pursuing him. As UNC’s freshman RB1, he made an immediate splash with 101 rushing yards and two touchdowns in his college debut, earning the ACC Rookie of the Week award.
His breakout continued in his sophomore year. In 2023, Hampton logged 26 carries for 234 yards and three touchdowns against Appalachian State, earning Doak Walker National Running Back of the Week honors. He finished the season with 1,504 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. His performance earned him first-team All-ACC honors and a spot as a Doak Walker Award finalist.
Hampton is viewed as one of the top running backs in the 2025 draft class. A violent, downhill runner, he brings excellent size, strength, and power to the table. As an inside runner, Hampton shows patience and vision — he lets his blockers do their job, then hits the hole hard. He’s also quick enough to threaten defenses on the edge. Hampton can bounce outside, plant his foot, and cut upfield in a flash.
