After a two-month absence, Chargers running back Omarion Hampton is set to return in Week 14. The Chargers are activating Hampton from injured reserve, veteran insider Jordan Schultz reports. He’ll play against the Eagles on Monday night.
The Chargers invested heavily in their backfield in the offseason, first signing former Steeler Najee Harris to a one-year deal worth up to $9.5M. Hampton joined the team over a month later as the 22nd overall pick in the draft.
Unfortunately for the Chargers, injuries have prevented Hampton and Harris from forming a strong duo. Hampton has been out since fracturing his ankle in Week 5, which was brutal timing after Harris went down with a season-ending Achilles tear in Week 3.
Hampton, a former North Carolina standout, performed well in his first five games. The 22-year-old averaged 4.8 yards per carry on 66 attempts and added two rushing touchdowns. He also caught 20 of 22 targets for 136 yards.
In the wake of the injuries to Hampton and Harris, the Chargers reportedly showed interest in running backs ahead of the Nov. 4 trade deadline. No deal came to fruition, but they found an in-house solution in backup Kimani Vidal. The 24-year-old has has amassed 543 yards and three scores on 121 attempts (4.5 YPC). Vidal has rushed for 100-plus yards in three games, including 126 in a win over the Raiders in Week 13, while chipping in 13 receptions and another score.
Thanks in part to Vidal, the Chargers have overcome a slew of notable injuries – including to starting offensive tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt – to start 8-4. Hampton’s return should aid the Chargers in their quest to win the AFC West, which the 10-2 Broncos lead, or at least earn a wild-card berth. They’ll face a rough closing schedule with the Eagles, Chiefs, Cowboys, Texans, and Broncos on the docket. Like the Chargers, all of those clubs are pushing for a playoff spot.