Charger Report

Najee Harris, Omarion Hampton both named among Round 1 biggest losers

The Los Angeles Chargers took one of the best RBs in the class, which will impact newly-signed Najee Harris.
North Carolina Tar Heels RB Omarion Hampton runs for a touchdown in the third quarter at Kenan Memorial Stadium.
North Carolina Tar Heels RB Omarion Hampton runs for a touchdown in the third quarter at Kenan Memorial Stadium. | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

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The Los Angeles Chargers made a surprising pick at No. 22 in the 2025 NFL draft when they took North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton.

It's a solid investment, as they landed one of the best running backs in this class. They also control his contract for the first five years of his career since he was taken in Round 1. Throw in the fact that he perfectly fits what Jim Harbaugh looks for, and it seems like a match made in heaven.

RELATED: Is Justin Herbert happy with Chargers' polarizing NFL draft pick?

The only issue is the presence of Najee Harris.

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris rushes during the second half against the Baltimore Ravens.
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris rushes during the second half against the Baltimore Ravens. | Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images

Los Angeles signed Harris this offseason after four years with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Harris signed a one-year deal and was in line to be the featured back. That's now in doubt with Hampton. On the flip side, Hampton won't be an unquestioned feature back either with Harris around.

This is why Justin Carter of Roto Baller named Hampton and Harris as two of the biggest losers from Round 1.

"It looked like Najee Harris had a path to a bellcow role in Los Angeles this season, but then the Chargers drafted Omarion Hampton in the first round. Now, both players are set to see their fantasy stocks drop in 2025. Hampton is still set up well long-term as Harris is on a one-year deal, but the two will siphon each other's upside off this season." — Carter, Roto Baller

North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton during the 2025 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium.
North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton during the 2025 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

In the end, Hampton will be the leader of the backfield, but he might not reach his potential immediately. That's why it's easier to agree with Harris as the loser from Round 1, rather than Hampton.

The veteran will likely be one-and-done in L.A., leaving him looking for another home in 2026.

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Randy Gurzi
RANDY GURZI

Randy Gurzi is a graduate of Arizona State and has focused on NFL coverage since 2014.