Los Angeles Chargers rookie running back Omarion Hampton exited Sunday’s matchup with the Washington Commanders late in the fourth quarter, raising fresh concerns for a Chargers team already thin at the position. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported, “#Chargers RB Omarion Hampton (ankle) is questionable to return.”
Hampton’s absence came at a critical moment, as Justin Herbert attempted to engineer a comeback drive while trailing by 10. Instead, Herbert was forced to press behind a patchwork offensive line, and his interception appeared to seal the outcome. Word soon spread that Hampton was in the blue medical tent being evaluated by trainers.
While the move may have been precautionary, Los Angeles can ill afford to lose its first-round pick after already losing Najee Harris for the season.
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Hampton’s Performance Against Washington
Is Jim Harbaugh The Real Life Ted Lasso?
The Chargers went into halftime tied 10-10, but Hampton was not his usual explosive self. In the first half, he logged 10 carries for 37 yards, averaging just 3.7 per attempt. He did not record a rushing touchdown.
Perhaps more telling, when the Chargers reached a critical goal-line situation in the fourth quarter, Hampton was nowhere to be found. He eventually walked to the locker room under his own power, helmet still on, suggesting the injury may not be long term.
Ironically, the team’s top rusher in the first half was Herbert, who picked up 42 yards on three scrambles.
From College Star to Chargers Starter
Selected No. 22 overall out of North Carolina, Hampton entered the NFL with high expectations after amassing 3,565 rushing yards and 36 touchdowns in 38 collegiate games. He wasted no time translating that production to the pros. Just a week earlier, he gashed the Giants for 128 rushing yards on 12 attempts, including a 54-yard burst, and added five receptions for 37 yards.
Hampton’s versatility as both a runner and receiver makes him an ideal fit for Jim Harbaugh’s offense. Slotted firmly as RB1 on the depth chart, his role has only grown in importance with Harris sidelined. Behind him, the Chargers feature Hassan Haskins and rookie Kimani Vidal, but neither has Hampton’s all-around upside.
If Sunday’s exit was indeed precautionary, Hampton should continue his trajectory as one of the most impactful rookies in the league. But the Chargers’ margin for error is slim. Herbert needs balance in the offense, and Harbaugh’s system relies on physicality in the backfield.
For Los Angeles, keeping Hampton healthy could be the difference between hovering around .500 and mounting a legitimate playoff push.
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