Najee Harris Achilles Injury Sends Shockwaves Through Chargers’ Season

Los Angeles Chargers running back Najee Harris suffered a significant Achilles injury. The incident occurred during Week 3’s game against the Denver Broncos. Harris was carted off the field and did not return.

The injury poses a major setback for the Chargers’ offense. According to ESPN, the team fears a long-term absence for the key free-agent acquisition.

Rookie Omarion Hampton Steps Into the Spotlight

The injury happened on a non-contact play early in the game. Harris slipped in the backfield after receiving the snap. He immediately went down grabbing his left leg.

Team trainers rushed to his aid. Harris was unable to put weight on the leg as he was helped to the sideline. He was later carted to the locker room, casting a pall over the stadium.

Reports from The Athletic highlighted the severity of the moment. The replay made the nature of the injury apparent to many observers. This loss is a critical blow to the Chargers’ ground game.

Fantasy Football Implications Are Immediate

With Harris out, rookie Omarion Hampton is now the lead back. The first-round draft pick is expected to see a massive increase in workload. He becomes an instant waiver-wire priority for fantasy managers.

Hampton showcased his talent during the preseason. He averaged an impressive 4.8 yards per carry. His college performance at North Carolina, where he rushed for over 1,600 yards, suggests he is ready for the challenge.

The Chargers’ run-heavy scheme under Greg Roman favors a primary ball carrier. Hampton is projected to receive 15 to 20 touches per game. This vaults him into must-start RB1 consideration for fantasy leagues.

The Najee Harris Achilles injury fundamentally alters the Chargers’ season outlook. While Hampton offers promising talent, replacing a veteran of Harris’s caliber is a formidable task. The team’s playoff hopes may now rest on a rookie’s shoulders.

Info at your fingertips

What is the expected timeline for Najee Harris’s return?

An Achilles injury typically requires a long recovery period. Most players face a rehabilitation timeline of nine to twelve months. A return during the 2025 season appears highly unlikely.

Who will be the Chargers’ primary running back now?

Rookie Omarion Hampton is immediately elevated to the starting role. He will handle the majority of carries out of the backfield. The team may also use veteran depth players in supporting roles.

How does this affect the Chargers’ offense?

The offense loses a proven, physical runner in Harris. It will now rely more heavily on the untested rookie, Hampton. This could make the offensive unit less predictable for opponents.

Is Omarion Hampton a good fantasy football pickup?

Yes, Hampton becomes a top waiver-wire addition. His projected volume of touches gives him immediate RB1 potential. He is especially valuable in leagues that reward points for receptions.

Did Najee Harris have a history of injuries?

Harris had been a durable player throughout his career. He previously played four seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers without major injury. This Achilles issue is his first significant football-related setback.

Trusted Sources

ESPN, The Athletic