Run The Football
The Chargers have made their intentions clear for 2025: they’re going to run the football and run it often. That philosophy now has two new pillars with the arrival of Najee Harris and first-round draft pick Omarion Hampton.
The rookie running back is already embracing the vision, especially the chance to partner with Harris in what he believes could be something special.
“We know they’re going to run the ball, so I’m loving it,” Hampton said during an appearance on The Jim Rome Show. “I’m excited, we got me and Najee, a dominant duo backfield. I’m excited to learn from him, I’m excited to get out there. We got a good offensive line, a good quarterback. I feel like we’re building something special here.”
College Production Signals Pro Potential
Hampton comes to L.A. with a résumé built on volume and impact. As North Carolina’s workhorse he racked up over 2,000 yards from scrimmage in 2024, third-most in the country, while averaging more than 175 total yards per game. He also became just the fourth FBS player since 2016 to post back-to-back seasons with 1,500+ rushing yards and 15+ rushing touchdowns.
In the NFL, he likely won’t need to shoulder that same load immediately. But his ability to handle it gives the Chargers flexibility as they develop a fresh backfield identity.
Veteran Presence Adds Balance
That identity will be shaped alongside Harris, who joined the team on a one-year deal after four seasons in Pittsburgh. Known for his durability, Harris has logged 68 consecutive starts and amassed over 4,300 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns since entering the league in 2021.
The pairing gives head coach Jim Harbaugh a powerful mix of experience and youth, and a rookie who’s all in on his coach’s philosophy.
“We know (Harbaugh)’s going to run the ball, he’s decided to run the ball and it’s something he wants to do,” Hampton said. “He did it all his career, so I’m just excited to get started. With him being my head coach, I couldn’t be more happy.”
