The Los Angeles Chargers’ backfield has gone from promising to perilous in just a few weeks. Rookie Omarion Hampton, who emerged as the team’s breakout runner, suffered a sprained ankle in Week 5 and was later seen in a walking boot. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Hampton could miss time beyond the minimum injured reserve stint, leaving Los Angeles scrambling for reinforcements.
With Najee Harris already out for the season due to an Achilles tear, the Chargers’ running back depth chart currently features Hassan Haskins, Kimani Vidal, and Amar Johnson — a group that lacks both experience and proven production. As a result, general manager Joe Hortiz and head coach Jim Harbaugh may be forced to explore the trade market ahead of the NFL’s midseason deadline.
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Chargers Face Depth Crisis After Omarion Hampton Injury
Alvin Kamara: The High-End Swing
Is Jim Harbaugh The Real Life Ted Lasso?
If Los Angeles wants a proven dual-threat weapon, the first call should go to New Orleans. Veteran Alvin Kamara remains one of the league’s premier pass-catching backs, but with the Saints sitting at 1–4 and leaning more heavily on younger players like Kendre Miller, a trade could make sense for both sides.
Kamara turns 30 this season and has one year left on his deal. While his $12 million cap hit complicates matters, a mid-round pick — likely a third or fourth — could be enough to make the Saints listen. Kamara would instantly upgrade Los Angeles’ offense, serving as a bridge until Hampton’s return and a complementary piece thereafter. As one NFC scout told Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football, the Saints “aren’t in position to turn down value if the right call comes.”
Breece Hall: The Splash Move
Another intriguing name is New York Jets star Breece Hall. Despite being one of the league’s most explosive runners, Hall’s future with the Jets remains uncertain. New York extended cornerback Sauce Gardner and receiver Garrett Wilson but has yet to offer Hall a long-term deal. With rookie Braelon Allen sidelined, trading Hall would be risky — but not off the table if the Jets continue to lose under new head coach Aaron Glenn.
Hall would command significant capital, possibly a second-rounder, but he’d give the Chargers a long-term solution alongside Hampton. Given offensive coordinator Greg Roman’s run-heavy system, Hall could thrive as the feature back immediately.
Mid-Tier Options: Dowdle, McLaughlin, and Ford
For a more budget-friendly move, Los Angeles could target Rico Dowdle from Carolina. The former Cowboys starter has seen limited touches this season but rushed for over 1,000 yards last year and carries just a $1.2 million salary. Carolina, at 1–3, might be willing to part ways to make room for rookie Trevor Etienne.
Jaleel McLaughlin of Denver could also be available. The explosive second-year back has fallen behind Tyler Badie in Sean Payton’s rotation despite strong preseason performances. He’d bring speed and playmaking ability without costing more than a late-round pick.
In Cleveland, Jerome Ford could be expendable after the Browns invested in rookie backs Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson. Ford’s versatility and low salary make him a sensible depth piece if the Chargers want insurance rather than a headline move.
Final Word
Los Angeles entered 2025 envisioning a backfield powered by Harris and Hampton. Now, both are sidelined, and the team must decide whether to patch the hole or pursue a real upgrade. Kamara offers star power and balance. Hall provides youth and explosiveness. Dowdle, McLaughlin, and Ford give practical flexibility.
Whatever route they choose, the message is clear — if the Chargers want to keep their offense stable during Hampton’s absence, standing pat isn’t an option.
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