Chargers Running Back Omarion Hampton Set for Return on Monday Night
The Los Angeles Chargers are likely to welcome back rookie running back Omarion Hampton for their upcoming Monday Night Football clash against the Philadelphia Eagles. A source informed ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler that Hampton is expected to play after being sidelined since Week 5 with a left ankle fracture.
Hampton had been on injured reserve and returned to practice last week, but the Chargers held him out against the Las Vegas Raiders as a precaution. His return to the full blue jersey during Friday’s practice indicated solid progress in his recovery. Hampton himself expressed eagerness to play but emphasized he will follow the medical team’s guidance.
Quarterback Justin Herbert also remains questionable for the game as he recovers from surgery on his fractured left hand but has participated in limited practices throughout the week. Fellow running back Hassan Haskins is in a similar questionable status, leaving the Chargers cautiously optimistic about their lineup.
In Hampton’s absence, running back Kimani Vidal stepped up as the team’s main rushing threat. Vidal, a sixth-round pick last April, had been released during roster cuts but was re-signed to the active roster after injuries struck the backfield. Coach Jim Harbaugh praised Vidal’s performance, noting he delivered three 100-yard rushing games, a first for a Charger since 2018.
Hampton was initially seen as a crucial piece alongside Najee Harris, who suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in Week 3. Before his injury, Hampton had established himself as a reliable ground force and safety valve, ranking third in the NFL in yards from scrimmage during Weeks 3 to 5. He caught 17 passes, tying with wide receiver Keenan Allen for second-most catches on the team in that span.
The rookie expressed confidence in his development, stating that he was just beginning to reach his full potential. His return is expected to bolster the Chargers’ rushing attack and provide quarterback Herbert with another dependable option on offense.
As the Chargers prepare to face a tough Eagles defense, Hampton’s availability could prove vital in sustaining their offensive momentum moving forward.
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