Najee Harris’ Day Ends Early
The Los Angeles Chargers watched a troubling scene unfold in the second quarter on Sunday when running back Najee Harris went down without finishing his handoff against the Denver Broncos. Harris’ left leg appeared to pop awkwardly, sending him tumbling forward in obvious pain.
The former Pro Bowl back tried to put weight on his leg but couldn’t, forcing trainers to help him to the sidelines before a cart took him to the locker room. The fear is an Achilles injury — a devastating blow to both Harris and the Chargers if confirmed.
Before exiting, Harris had logged six carries for 28 yards. His absence opened the door for rookie Omarion Hampton, who shouldered the rushing load and delivered the team’s first rushing touchdown of 2025.
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Harris wasn’t the only key player to leave the field. Free-agent addition Mekhi Becton, signed this offseason to solidify the offensive line, departed with a head injury and did not return. Jamaree Salyer filled in at guard, but the reshuffle only highlighted how thin the Chargers’ line has become.
The unit was already reeling after losing Rashawn Slater earlier in the season. On Sunday, Slater’s replacement, Trey Pipkins, also went in and out of the lineup while trainers examined an ankle injury. If Becton misses time, the Chargers will rely on Salyer as the starting guard, with Austin Deculus the lone swing tackle on the active roster.
Special Teams Setback
Adding to the attrition, wide receiver and return man Derius Davis exited with a knee injury and was listed as questionable to return. Davis has been a steady contributor on special teams, and his potential absence would force more adjustments.
What It Means Moving Forward
For head coach Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers’ depth is being tested earlier than anyone anticipated. Harris was expected to be a central figure in the backfield rotation, while Becton was brought in to stabilize an offensive line that struggled to keep Herbert upright in recent years.
Now, with multiple starters sidelined and uncertain timelines for return, Los Angeles faces an uphill climb not only in the AFC West but also in keeping their franchise quarterback healthy.
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