Chargers Rookie RB Hampton Injury Delays Return, Deepens Running Back Concerns

Los Angeles Chargers rookie running back Omarion Hampton suffered a high-ankle sprain in Week 5 and was placed on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least four games and likely pushing his return closer to the end of the season. Hampton's injury, coupled with veteran Najee Harris's season-ending torn Achilles, has left the Chargers with a thin backfield, forcing lesser-known players like Kimani Vidal to step up. Despite initial hopes for a quicker recovery, Hampton was still seen wearing a walking boot weeks after the injury, raising doubts about his timely return. The Chargers have struggled with rushing production in Hampton's absence, and the team is reportedly looking to add running back depth via trade ahead of the NFL trade deadline. One potential target is Browns running back Jerome Ford, who fits the Chargers' need for a rotational back while Hampton recovers. The team's urgency to bolster the running back position underscores the significant impact of Hampton's prolonged injury on the Chargers’ offensive plans.