Chargers Place Rookie RB Omarion Hampton on Injured Reserve with Ankle Injury

Los Angeles Chargers rookie running back Omarion Hampton has been placed on injured reserve due to an ankle injury sustained in their recent loss to the Washington Commanders, sidelining him for at least four weeks. Hampton, who had been the team's leading rookie in scrimmage yards, rushed for 314 yards and scored two touchdowns in five games this season, also catching 20 passes for 136 yards. His injury compounds the Chargers' ongoing issues with running back depth, as Najee Harris is already out for the season with a torn Achilles, and left tackle Rashawn Slater is also sidelined for the year. With Hampton and Harris both on injured reserve, the Chargers will rely on Hassan Haskins, Kimani Vidal, and practice squad member Amar Johnson to fill the running back role. The team faces challenges ahead in maintaining a reliable running game to support quarterback Justin Herbert, especially given the offensive line injuries and recent losses. Coach Jim Harbaugh acknowledged Hampton as a "special player" and emphasized the need to explore other options to compensate for the depleted backfield.