With Jim Harbaugh now at the helm in Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Chargers are embracing a smashmouth identity that mirrors his previous stops. Central to that philosophy is a physical run game—and a brewing backfield competition between rookie Omarion Hampton and veteran Najee Harris.
Despite Harris’ impressive résumé—four straight 1,000-yard seasons, at least six rushing touchdowns each year, and no missed games since entering the NFL in 2021—his starting role is anything but guaranteed. Bleacher Report and ESPN both project Hampton, the Chargers’ 22nd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, to ultimately win the job.
Omarion Hampton Projected to Beat Out Najee Harris for Los Angeles Chargers’ Lead Back Role

“Hampton is a hard-charging downhill running back with experience carrying a rushing offense,” wrote B/R scout Dame Parson. “He’s built like an NFL back, runs behind his pads with strong leg drive, and has good body control and contact balance.”
At 220 pounds with a 4.46-second 40-yard dash, Hampton brings both power and burst—something Harris has lacked in recent seasons. While their running styles are similar, the rookie’s top-end speed and long-term upside give him an edge, especially with Harris only on a one-year deal.
ESPN’s Mike Clay projects Hampton to post 961 rushing yards, nine rushing touchdowns, and two receiving scores in his debut season—more total touchdowns (11) than any other rookie back, including Raiders standout Ashton Jeanty. “The No. 22 pick will likely operate as the lead back in Jim Harbaugh’s run-friendly scheme,” Clay wrote.
J.K. Dobbins, last year’s rushing leader, remains unsigned but could still enter the mix. For now, all eyes are on Hampton and Harris—two capable backs, one shared goal. As Hampton put it, “We can be a dominant duo.”
But if preseason forecasts hold, the rookie will lead the charge.
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