Omarion Hampton still listed as backup on Chargers depth chart

The Los Angeles Chargers basically ran to the podium on draft night when Omarion Hampton was still available at the No.22 overall pick. The vision, at least for the early portion of his rookie season, was for Hampton to split carries with Najee Harris. Harris was brought in on a one-year deal earlier in the offseason, following four consecutive 1,000-yard rushing campaigns in Pittsburgh.

As Week 1 is just under a month away, Harris hasn't been practicing with the Chargers due to an eye injury suffered over summer break. Hampton then became the Bolts' stand-in RB1 for the time being, treated as the starter during their first two preseason games.

The Chargers released their unofficial depth chart ahead of their preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams, with Hampton surprisingly still being listed as a backup. Harris was put down as the starter.

Chargers' OC Greg Roman revealed on Tuesday that even if Harris isn't ready to go by Week 1, Hampton won't be their bellcow ballcarrier to begin the season.

Greg Roman said that even if Najee Harris isn’t ready to go Week 1, RB Omarion Hampton will rotate with another back. Who that other back is, Roman says is wide open.
— Kris Rhim (@krisrhim1) August 12, 2025

In wake of Harris' injury, the Chargers signed veteran Nyheim Hines, who also brings over special teams experience. Kimani Vidal and Hassan Haskins also round out the makeup of the Chargers' running back room.

It'll be interesting to see who ends up splitting carries with Hampton if Harris is out for Week 1.

— Enjoy free coverage of the Chargers from Los Angeles Chargers on SI —

More Los Angeles Chargers News:

Former Chargers TE signs with Rams in free agency

Chargers' hyped rookie losing spot in rotation to former UDFA

Chargers' 1,600-yard budding star named pivotal player for 2025

Chargers seeing unexpected former UDFA claim defensive starting role

Chargers’ recent signing one of LA’s highest-graded players from preseason vs. Saints

Najee Harris injury update: Chargers RB shows progress at latest camp practice