Najee Harris is close to returning from a scary eye injury suffered in a July fireworks mishap, and the Chargers are counting on him to anchor a crowded backfield. On a one-year deal worth up to 9.25 million, Harris has been inching back into drills after limited activity since early August. If Harris isn’t ready for Week 1, Omarion Hampton will shoulder more carries as the top backup, with a battleground around Vidal, Sanders, Haskins and Miller-Hines for the third spot. The Chargers haven’t had a 1,000-yard rusher since 2017, and Harris’s dual-threat profile could unlock the passing game if he’s healthy. Week 1 against Kansas City in Sao Paulo will be a true early-season gauge.

The Chargers’ depth behind Harris is notable but unproven, making every practice rep critical for Hampton and the competing group. Harris’s Pittsburgh background as a steady runner and reliable receiver is a relatable touchstone for fantasy managers weighing risk vs. reward in a backfield that needs a durable, feature-back presence. Harris’s health status and usage in the opener will drive the early fantasy value of Hampton and the rest of the Chargers' backfield, especially in DFS lineups and risk-adjusted season-long rosters.

Week 1 against Kansas City features a rotating Chargers backfield with Omarion Hampton poised to split carries with Najee Harris, who is still rounding into shape after a superficial eye injury. Harris may not clear Week 1, so Hampton’s workload could be substantial early, backed by a group of challengers (Raheim Sanders, Hassan Haskins, Kimani Vidal, Nyheim Miller-Hines) who are all in the mix for touches. Hampton brings vision and burst, and the coaches praise his ability to find lanes in non-padded practices, signaling a real fantasy upside if he logs a sizable share.

Injuries also shaped practice notes: Rashawn Slater and Donte Jackson were among Chargers players hurt in recent sessions, and the team canceled a Rams joint-practice to manage roster health. Harris has appeared on the practice field in individual drills, showing steady progress. All signs point to a Week 1 floor built on rotation and opportunity, with Hampton ready to make an immediate impact if Harris is limited.

Najee Harris, running back for the Los Angeles Chargers, suffered a superficial eye injury during a fireworks incident at a Fourth of July gathering. Fortunately, he is expected to recover fully in time for the 2025 NFL season. His agent confirmed the injury occurred amidst a mishap involving multiple attendees, but reassured fans that Harris’ readiness for the season remains intact.

Although Harris is likely to miss the start of training camp, this may create a competitive edge for rookie Omarion Hampton, who could emerge as a leading back while Harris recovers. Fantasy managers should keep an eye on this situation, as it could impact their draft strategies and roster decisions.

The Los Angeles Chargers are eyeing potential upgrades at the running back position. With J.K. Dobbins slated for free agency, the team's options may dwindle to Kimani Vidal and Hassan Haskins unless Dobbins is re-signed before then. Meanwhile, Aaron Jones is emerging as a compelling target for the Chargers, especially after a stellar season with the Minnesota Vikings where he posted career-high stats, including 1,138 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 255 carries.

However, signing Jones carries risks due to his age and injury history; he will turn 31 during the upcoming season and has only completed three full seasons over eight years. Despite this, Jones's consistent performance could fill the gap left by Dobbins should he depart. The verdict leans towards re-signing Dobbins or looking into this year's robust draft class for a fresher talent.

Ezekiel Elliott has joined the Los Angeles Chargers' practice squad, bringing his veteran experience to the team as they prepare for the playoffs. Released by the Dallas Cowboys on December 31, Elliott's signing coincides with the Chargers' strong season, finishing at 11-6 and entering the wild-card round against Houston.

Head Coach Jim Harbaugh reflected on Elliott's past performances, recalling a challenging game in 2015 where Elliott dominated with 214 rushing yards. The Chargers' dynamic lineup now also features Elliott's former Ohio State teammate, Joey Bosa, which adds to the familiarity on the field.

This season, Elliott has faced struggles, marking career lows in rushing attempts and yards. However, with J.K. Dobbins leading the Chargers' backfield, the team hopes Elliott can quickly adjust and contribute. Dobbins has shown impressive performance, rushing for over 900 yards this season.