Since being placed on Injured Reserve in Week 5, we have finally received an update on the status of the Chargers’ first-round rookie running back Omarion Hampton. Los Angeles has struggled to find consistency on the ground without him, and his recovery timeline could significantly impact how the rest of the season unfolds.
When Is Omarion Hampton Expected to Return from His Injury?
Heading into Week 5 against the Commanders, Omarion Hampton was just beginning to find his rhythm. Over his previous two games, he recorded 129 and 165 scrimmage yards, scoring a touchdown in each outing.
He looked strong again versus Washington until he suffered an ankle injury late in the third quarter. What initially appeared minor quickly turned serious when Hampton was seen leaving the stadium in a walking boot. Two days later, the Chargers placed their rookie on Injured Reserve, ruling him out for at least four games.
At the time, it was unclear exactly how long the 22-year-old would be sidelined. Some believed he could return after the four-week minimum, while others projected a six-to eight-week recovery. With Week 9 now behind us, the timeline has finally become clearer.
According to head coach Jim Harbaugh, Hampton is not expected to return from IR until after the team’s Week 12 bye.
Harbaugh: Omarion Hampton (foot) not expected to return from IR until after Week 12 bye.
— Underdog NFL (@UnderdogNFL) November 3, 2025
While that update isn’t ideal, Chargers fans can take comfort in knowing their workhorse back is on track to return this season.
Los Angeles will host the Steelers in Week 10 before traveling to Jacksonville to face the Jaguars in Week 11. In the meantime, expect Kimani Vidal to continue leading the backfield. Through four starts in the six games, Vidal has totaled 291 rushing yards with both a rushing and receiving touchdown.
What Hampton’s Absence Means for the Chargers
Without Hampton, the Chargers’ ground game has been up and down. Kimani Vidal has handled most of the carries and provided solid production, but the offense hasn’t found the same rhythm it had when Hampton was active. According to PFSN’s NFL Offense Impact metric, Los Angeles currently ranks 16th in the league, reflecting the unit’s inconsistent performance since the loss of its top back.
Hampton’s power between the tackles and ability to create yards after contact gave the Chargers a physical edge that’s been missing over the past month. If he returns healthy, he should bring stability to the backfield and take some pressure off Justin Herbert as the Chargers look to steady their offense after the bye.
If Harbaugh decides to open Hampton’s 21-day practice window after the Week 12 bye, the rookie could be ready for a divisional matchup against the Raiders in Week 13. If not, the Chargers face the Eagles in Week 14 and the Chiefs in Week 15, and Los Angeles would certainly like to have him back for that stretch run.