Chargers Place Hampton on Injured Reserve

The Los Angeles Chargers placed rookie running back Omarion Hampton on injured reserve after he left Sunday’s 27-10 loss to the Washington Commanders with a left-ankle injury and was seen in a walking boot, making him unavailable for at least four games, coach Jim Harbaugh said. Hampton had emerged as the team’s primary back after Najee Harris suffered a season-ending torn Achilles, totaling 314 rushing yards and two touchdowns while also contributing as a receiver. With Hampton sidelined, the Chargers’ backfield is thin — Hassan Haskins is the only proven running back on the 53-man roster while Kimani Vidal and Amar Johnson remain on the practice squad, and Vidal is the likeliest short-term promotion. The loss compounds broader offensive-line issues, including starting left tackle Rashawn Slater being out for the season and Joe Alt missing Sunday with an ankle issue, leaving Justin Herbert under heavy pressure as the Chargers have dropped two straight. The team will await further testing to finalize Hampton’s timeline and could pursue a roster move or trade to bolster depth if the absence is prolonged.