The Los Angeles Chargers’ running back woes reached a new low in Week 7, as Hassan Haskins left Sunday’s 38-24 loss to the Indianapolis Colts limping off the field with a hamstring issue. Kris Rhim reported during the game, “RB Hassan Haskins just limped off the field. He was struggling to put weight on his right foot. Trainers working with him on the sideline.” Haskins, who suited up despite being questionable with a chest injury, did not practice Monday and now faces uncertainty ahead of Thursday Night Football against the Minnesota Vikings.
Kimani Vidal has emerged as the de facto lead back in Haskins’ absence, logging 13 touches against Indianapolis compared to Haskins’ three. However, neither back made a significant impact in a contest that saw Justin Herbert attempt a season-high 55 passes. If Haskins can’t suit up on the short week, the Chargers may elevate Nyheim Hines from the practice squad as the No. 2 option behind Vidal.
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Chargers Backfield Decimated
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The running back situation in Los Angeles has been plagued by injuries all season. Najee Harris is out for the year with an Achilles injury, while first-round rookie Omarion Hampton remains on injured reserve with an ankle sprain. Haskins has been key as both a blocker and receiving threat, exemplified by a critical block on a game-winning play last week. The team’s current depth, including Amar Johnson, Nyheim Hines, and Jaret Patterson, lacks the experience and consistency needed to stabilize the offense.
“Perhaps this is nothing more than precaution for the Chargers,” the reports suggest, “but the depth is paper-thin right now.”
Trade Market in Focus
Given the backfield crisis and ongoing offensive line struggles, the Chargers are expected to be active at the NFL trade deadline. As Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported, “The Chargers are exploring running back and offensive line depth.” Names linked to Los Angeles include Cleveland Browns’ Jerome Ford and New York Jets’ Breece Hall, while former target Alvin Kamara remains off the market.
Protecting Herbert Remains Priority
The offensive line has been equally concerning. With Rashawn Slater out for the season and Joe Alt sidelined by a high-ankle sprain, the Chargers rank 28th in pass-block win rate, surrendering 18 sacks, tied for fifth-most in the NFL. Reports indicate the team has explored potential upgrades, including a low-cost flier in former first-round pick Evan Neal.
At 4–2, the Chargers remain in contention for the AFC playoffs. But with key injuries piling up, Los Angeles is under pressure to shore up both the trenches and the backfield in the coming weeks to avoid further setbacks.
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