Los Angeles Chargers running back Najee Harris spent the majority of the offseason recovering from an eye injury caused by a Fourth of July fireworks accident. While the former first-round pick missed most of the offseason workouts and the entire preseason, Harris recently said he expects to play in the team’s Week 1 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Read More: Chargers-Chiefs Predictions, Betting Lines
Najee Harris said he is expects to play against the Chiefs on Friday in Brazil: “I’m ramping up to it.” Did not want to get into any details on what happened in the fireworks accident. Said his vision has not been affected and called the eye injury “superficial.” pic.twitter.com/T7xoqDVodX
— Daniel Popper (@danielrpopper) September 1, 2025
Najee Harris Injury Update: Chargers RB Expects to Play In Week 1
Even with Harris returning to the lineup, 2025 first-round pick Omarion Hampton should be the focal point of the rushing attack. Selected out of North Carolina, the 22-year-old spent the majority of the offseason as the team’s unquestioned starter. Seeing as Harris missed so much practice time, it stands to reason that Hampton is more comfortable alongside Justin Herbert than Harris. Additionally, Hampton is the superior talent at this stage in their respective careers.
While Harris probably won’t see a featured role this year, he can still be a valuable part of this committee. After recording at least 1,000 yards in each of his four seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers, the running back signed a one-year deal to be the short-term leader of the Chargers backfield. While his eye injury may have ruined his chances at starting, Najee Harris is still a great fit for this offense. Head coach Jim Harbaugh loved old-school, physical football, and that’s exactly what Harris brings to the table.
While Week 1’s matchup will technically be a home game for Harris and the Chargers, the game will take place in Sao Paulo, Brazil as the NFL attempts to increase its international appeal. Kickoff is Friday, September 5th at 8:00 EST.
Main Photo: Kirby Lee – Imagn Images
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