Kimani Vidal injury update: Will Chargers' backup RB missing significant time?

After suffering a neck injury in Sunday's win over the Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Chargers' backup running back Kimani Vidal is day-to-day.

Kimani Vidal | Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

In a season marked by even more serious injuries than wins the last thing the Los Angeles Chargers needed is to lose another key contributor as they head down the stretch run of the regular season and toward the playoffs.

It appears that - for once - the Bolts may have dodged a bullet.

MORE: Chargers alive for AFC West title, No. 1 playoff seed after shocking Broncos loss

Running back Kimani Vidal, who filled in admirably while star rookie Omarion Hampton missed seven games earlier this season, suffered nothing more than a strained neck in Sunday's blowout win over the Dallas Cowboys and is considered only "day to day." He had only five carries for 11 yards in the win at AT&T Stadium while Hampton got 16 totes for 85 yards. Hassan Haskins took up the slack in Vidal's backup role with four carries.

#Chargers RB Kimani Vidal, who left Sunday's win over the #Cowboys early, was diagnosed with a neck strain and is considered day-to-day, source says after the MRI. Vidal could miss time, but the belief is that it's not serious. pic.twitter.com/2TGXgPpWTp

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 22, 2025

In 12 games and 10 starts, Vidal leads the team with 631 yards rushing. He's also added 15 catches for 138 yards and four total touchdowns.

Because of the Denver Broncos' loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday afternoon, the Chargers are still alive for both the AFC West title and the conference's No. 1 seed in the playoffs with two games remaining. At 11-4, they trail the 12-3 Broncos but play in Denver in Week 18.

MORE: Quentin Johnston's impactful return zooms Chargers past mostly disinterested Cowboys

They host the Houston Texans Sunday at SoFi Stadium in a game between what currently are two of the AFC's three Wild Card teams.

Kimani Vidal | Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

Sign Up For the Chargers Daily Digest - OnSI’s Free Los Angeles Chargers Newsletter

More Los Angeles Chargers News:

Chargers coaches stumble explaining Mekhi Becton situation

Chargers predicted to crash and burn with messy playoff exit

Cowboys may know their fate before kickoff as Chargers can clinch a playoff spot

Who's stepping up for Chargers' injured stars after massive injury report?

3 stats that show how much Justin Herbert is doing on his own