Los Angeles Chargers running back Omarion Hampton has suffered an ankle injury that will keep him sidelined for multiple games. What will the Chargers do at running back during Hampton’s absence?
Omarion Hampton Injured
Chargers to place RB Omarion Hampton (ankle) on IR. He will miss at least the next four games. pic.twitter.com/BAv157cZFY
— NFL (@NFL) October 6, 2025
Hampton suffered an ankle injury during Sunday’s 27-10 loss to the Washington Commanders. Hampton left the game in the second half and never returned. The rookie finished with 44 yards on 12 carries. Hampton also caught six receptions for 26 yards.
Hampton was spotted on the sidelines testing his ankle in the fourth quarter. However, Hampton did not enter the game after the injury.
On Monday, Hampton was spotted in a walking boot, ramping up speculation that the talented running back would miss some time.
That speculation became reality when Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh announced Hampton is being placed on injured reserve (IR). Hampton will miss at least the next four games.
The Chargers used a first-round pick on Hampton in April’s draft. Harbaugh believed Hampton could be the team’s starting running back by the end of the season.
Harris began the season as the starting running back. After a slow start to the season, Hampton broke out in Week 3 against the Denver Broncos. Hampton had over 125 yards from scrimmage in the 23-20 victory.
In Week 4, Hampton was one of the lone bright spots for the Chargers in a 21-18 loss to the New York Giants. Hampton carried the ball 12 times for 128 yards and one touchdown. The rookie also recorded five catches for 37 yards.
Hampton has 314 yards rushing and two touchdowns through five games. He also has 20 receptions for 136 yards.
What Will the Chargers Do at Running Back?
Omarion Hampton with one of the more creative/agile moves against interior penetration that I've seen him back.
Good work opening the hips here to slide away from the DT. #Boltsup pic.twitter.com/YF2XYIrKQ2
— Matt Waldman (@MattWaldman) October 6, 2025
Hampton will miss these next four games at a minimum:
- Week 6 at Miami Dolphins
- Week 7 vs. Indianapolis Colts
- Week 8 vs. Minnesota Vikings
- Week 9 at Tennessee Titans
That’s a manageable schedule for the Chargers to navigate without Hampton. However, injuries are starting to derail what was once a promising season.
In the last two weeks, the Chargers have lost Hampton and offensive tackle Joe Alt to injury. Last month, running back Najee Harris suffered a season-ending Achilles injury.
Now, the Chargers will likely turn to a running back committee consisting of Kimani Vidal and Hassan Haskins. The duo combined for 31 yards on nine carries in Sunday’s loss.
Both Vidal and Hasskins have less than 200 career rushing yards. Putting this duo behind a struggling offensive line is not an ideal situation.
Look for Justin Hebert to pass more while Hampton is on the shelf.
