When the Los Angeles Chargers selected running back Omarion Hampton with the No. 22 pick in the 2025 NFL draft, he was expected to anchor the backfield alongside quarterback Justin Herbert. A physical, bruising runner reminiscent of coach Jim Harbaugh's ideal style, Hampton seemed poised for a breakout season under new offensive coordinator Mike Mc Daniel, who once compared him to Hall of Fame running back Terrell Davis.
However, injuries to both ankles limited his rookie year, and this season his snap count has declined steadily. After 40 snaps in Week 2 against the Las Vegas Raiders — including a career-high 23 carries — Hampton's involvement dropped to 20 snaps in Week 5 against the Denver Broncos, fewer than backups Kimani Vidal and Keaton Mitchell. A costly fumble and several dropped passes may have contributed to the reduced role.
Despite the decreased usage, Harbaugh maintains confidence, saying Hampton is "playing extremely well in all phases." Mc Daniel emphasized the rotation is not a reflection on any individual, noting the running back room is a "strength" and that balancing opportunities among the three backs is part of his responsibility. With only one ball to go around, the Chargers are still determining how to best utilize their investment in Hampton.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing