Los Angeles Chargers running back Najee Harris was injured during a Fourth of July fireworks mishap in his hometown of Antioch, California, according to multiple reports. The incident, which occurred in the early morning hours of July 5, left five individuals injured, including Harris, who sustained what his agent later described as a “superficial eye injury.”
Initial Reports and Fan Concern
Speculation began circulating online over the holiday weekend, with rumors suggesting Harris may have been involved in a fireworks-related accident. Fans initially hoped it was just social media chatter. But as reports from local journalists including Rick Hurd and Darren Sabedra of the Bay Area News Group surfaced, the concerns became more grounded. According to their sources, Harris was first treated at John Muir Hospital in Concord before being transferred to Stanford Hospital.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport later relayed a statement from Harris’ agent, Doug Hendrickson, confirming that the running back was indeed present during the explosion. “Najee sustained a superficial eye injury during the incident but is fully expected to be ready for the upcoming NFL season,” Hendrickson said.
Police and Emergency Response
Antioch Police responded to calls just after midnight on July 5 regarding an explosion on Spanos Street. Their Facebook statement described fireworks as the cause and confirmed that several people had left the scene before first responders arrived. The investigation remains ongoing.
Harris’ Role with Los Angeles Chargers
Harris signed a one-year deal worth up to $9.25 million with the Chargers this offseason after four productive seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The 27-year-old topped 1,000 rushing yards in each of his first four seasons and brings durability and production to a Chargers backfield looking to replace J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards. The team also added Omarion Hampton to the backfield via the NFL Draft.
With training camp set to open July 17—and rookies reporting as early as July 12—Harris is expected to be on track. While the injury caused understandable concern, all signs point to a quick recovery for the newest member of the Chargers’ offense.
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