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.

In the quest for hidden gems during the 2025 fantasy football draft, several undrafted running backs are shining bright as potential steals. Raheim Sanders, the explosive SEC transfer, has landed with the Los Angeles Chargers, showcasing impressive speed and receiving skills that could make him a valuable asset in a crowded backfield. Meanwhile, Corey Kiner is poised to thrive in the San Francisco 49ers' system, known for transforming undrafted talent into fantasy contributors, thanks to his elite tackle-breaking ability and zone-running proficiency.

Marcus Yarns, joining the New Orleans Saints, stands out with his receiving skills and opportunity behind Alvin Kamara, making him a sleeper worth monitoring. Dillon Johnson, with his power running style from Washington, could carve a role in the Carolina Panthers' lineup, especially near the goal line. Lastly, Ulysses Bentley IV's big-play potential with the Indianapolis Colts adds another layer of intrigue. Each of these players presents a unique opportunity for fantasy managers seeking late-round value and potential upside.