Omarion Hampton Latest Injury Update: Will His Return Timeline Shift After Chargers Roster Move?

The Los Angeles Chargers are preparing to activate Omarion Hampton for Week 14 after waiving defensive lineman Naquan Jones on December 9. The roster decision signals Hampton’s likely return against the Philadelphia Eagles at SoFi Stadium. The rookie has been out since Week 5 with a fractured ankle.

The Chargers have not yet filed the official activation, but league insiders expect the move to occur hours before kickoff. Hampton has completed his recovery work and practiced in recent sessions. His return gives Los Angeles needed depth as the offense looks to stabilize late in the season.

How the Chargers’ Roster Move Supports Omarion Hampton’s Return Timeline

Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported that Los Angeles waived defensive tackle Naquan Jones to open a roster spot. Jones appeared in eight games this season. The move matches earlier reports that the Chargers planned to reinstate Hampton from injured reserve ahead of Monday night’s game.

Hampton has missed more than two months since suffering his ankle fracture in early October. Medical evaluations cleared him for practice late last week. Coaches have monitored his movement closely, and his acceleration and cutting ability have shown improvement across multiple sessions.

Los Angeles expects to manage Hampton’s workload in his first game back. The rookie was productive before his injury and earned early trust from the staff. However, long absences often lead teams to limit reps to avoid setbacks. His snap count is likely to be measured as he regains confidence and endurance.

Kimani Vidal’s strong performance in Hampton’s absence also gives the Chargers flexibility. Vidal has handled lead duties for several weeks and continues to produce in key situations. The combination allows the staff to bring Hampton back gradually without placing strain on the offense.

What Hampton’s Return Means for the Chargers Offense in Week 14

Hampton’s return gives the Chargers a more balanced backfield for the final stretch of the regular season. His physical running style helps control tempo and sustain drives. Coaches value his ability to break tackles and extend plays in short-yardage situations.

The offense has lacked consistency at times without Hampton. His availability adds another dimension for quarterback Justin Herbert, helping diversify play calls. A structured rotation with Vidal should support efficiency while reducing risk of overuse.

Hampton’s injury recovery appears on track, and all signs point toward a Week 14 return. The Chargers now have the roster space and the medical clearance needed to activate him before Monday night’s kickoff.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is Omarion Hampton’s current return timeline?

Hampton is expected to be activated before the Chargers’ Week 14 game. The team waived a player to open a roster spot for him. His workload will likely be limited.

Q2: Why did the Chargers waive Naquan Jones?

Los Angeles waived Jones to clear space on the 53-man roster. The move prepares the team to activate Hampton from injured reserve.

Q3: Has Omarion Hampton been medically cleared?

Reports indicate he has been cleared for return. He practiced recently and completed the required recovery benchmarks.

Q4: How will the Chargers use Hampton in Week 14?

Hampton is expected to receive a limited workload. Kimani Vidal will continue to share carries as the team protects Hampton from overuse.

Q5: When was Hampton’s last game?

Hampton last played in Week 5 before fracturing his ankle. He has missed more than two months of action.