For the Los Angeles Chargers, Kamani Vidal is no longer just a running back — he’s the linchpin holding together an offense crippled by injuries. With star tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt sidelined for the season, the Chargers’ offensive line has been forced into constant patchwork mode, leaving quarterback Justin Herbert exposed to relentless pressure. In this environment, Vidal’s pass-protection ability has become essential.
Vidal as Herbert’s Guardian
Patrick Claybon of NFL Daily with Gregg Rosenthal highlighted Vidal’s significance ahead of the Chargers’ Week 10 showdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers:
“Well, fortunately for Justin Herbert, he’s got one of the best pass-protecting running backs in the entire NFL in Kamani Vidal back there — you know, he’s making plays in the pass game again, whether catching the ball or blocking for Herbo. And I think they’re going to need it.
It’s going to be Herbo out on the edge — make it happen, make them miss. You have Ladd and QJ coming back to the ball, have Gadsden work the middle, and just let Justin figure it out. It’s going to be quarters of that versus the Steelers kind of plotting their way down the field, scoring a predictable 20 to 22 points.”
Claybon’s insight underscores the reality: in a line decimated by injuries, Vidal is the critical factor that allows Herbert to operate without constant pressure. Despite the increased pressure, Herbert continues to push the ball down the field. For the last three weeks, his average depth of target has been north of nine yards. This is the 6th deepest over that time among starting quarterbacks
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Chargers’ Offensive Line in Crisis
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The injury toll along the line has been staggering. Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt, two cornerstone tackles, are both out for the season. Swing tackle Trey Pipkins III, right guard Mekhi Becton, Jamaree Salyer, and Austin Deculus have battled injuries throughout the year. Bobby Hart, brought in as a replacement, also struggled with groin and ankle issues.
The Chargers made a proactive move by trading for Saints lineman Trevor Penning, but even Penning has never played right guard in the NFL, and the line remains a patchwork of fill-ins. In this context, Vidal’s ability to handle pass protection becomes pivotal.
Vidal’s Dual Threat
Since Week 6, Vidal has carried the offense with 66 carries for 309 yards and a rushing touchdown, alongside 9 receptions for 40 yards and a receiving touchdown. He’s allowed just four pressures in 29 pass-block snaps and no sacks, showcasing his versatility as both a runner and Herbert’s guardian in the backfield.
Outlook
Against a Steelers defense that ranks among the league’s best against running backs, Vidal’s role as a protector could dictate the outcome. If he falters in blocking or fails to create separation in the passing game, Herbert could be under siege. But if Vidal delivers, the Chargers maintain a chance to overcome their battered line and keep their playoff hopes alive.
In 2025, Kamani Vidal isn’t just contributing — he’s holding the Chargers’ offense together, one crucial block at a time.
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