Chargers News
Hampton Returns to Form as Chargers Eye Playoff Push
Los Angeles Chargers running back Omarion Hampton returned to action in Week 14 following an eight-week absence due to a fractured ankle. The injury sidelined him from Week 6 through Week 13 after he suffered the setback in a Week 5 loss to Washington.
Hampton was activated from injured reserve for the December 9 Monday night game against Philadelphia. He produced 67 scrimmage yards and one touchdown on 15 touches in the contest. The Chargers won 22-19 in overtime.
One week later, against Kansas City, Hampton carried 15 times for 61 yards. He added one reception for four yards. Los Angeles defeated the Chiefs 16-13. Over his first two games back, Hampton totaled 31 touches for 132 scrimmage yards and one score.
The workload has been shared with Kimani Vidal since Hampton’s return. Vidal impressed during Hampton’s absence, recording four 100-yard rushing performances. The Chargers have utilized both backs as they manage Hampton’s return to full strength.
Before the injury, Hampton demonstrated explosive potential. In Week 3 against Denver, he recorded 25 touches for 129 yards and one touchdown. The following week against the Giants, he rushed 12 times for 128 yards and a touchdown while catching five passes for 37 yards. Those two games produced 42 touches for 294 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns.
Hampton started each of the Chargers’ first five games this season. He rushed 66 times for 314 yards and two touchdowns while adding 20 receptions for 136 yards. The North Carolina product averaged 4.8 yards per carry before the injury. The Chargers selected Hampton with the 22nd overall pick in April’s draft. He became the first running back taken in the first round. Los Angeles believes he can be a three-down back capable of handling a significant workload.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh indicated the team would increase Hampton’s snap count as he gets further removed from the ankle fracture. The Chargers currently hold the No. 5 seed in the AFC playoff race at 10-4.
Los Angeles travels to Dallas on Sunday, December 21 at 10:00 AM PST to face the Cowboys. The game airs on FOX. One week later, the Chargers host Houston at SoFi Stadium on Saturday, December 27 at 1:30 PM PST. That game will air on NFL Network. The Chargers have won their last two games by a combined six points. Both victories came with Hampton back in the lineup after his lengthy absence.