Los Angeles Chargers running back Omarion Hampton is poised to make his return for the playoff game against the New England Patriots on Sunday after recovering from a right ankle injury. Hampton missed the Chargers’ Week 18 matchup against the Denver Broncos but participated in practice in a limited capacity on Friday, his first on-field work since Week 17. The Chargers have officially listed him as questionable for the game.
“I’m super excited,” Hampton expressed, anticipating his first playoff appearance. The rookie, who was selected in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, has faced significant challenges this season due to injuries. After suffering a fracture in his left ankle, he was placed on injured reserve following the Chargers’ Week 5 loss to the Washington Commanders. Although he returned in Week 14 against the Philadelphia Eagles, he sustained another injury to his right ankle during Week 17’s game against the Houston Texans.
Hampton’s latest injury occurred early in the fourth quarter when he was tackled by linebacker Henry To’oTo’o. Despite the pain, he managed to finish the game with 29 rushing yards, a touchdown, and 31 receiving yards. “I definitely didn’t want to give up on my team,” he stated. “I just wanted to help my team out as much as I could, so I kept my head down and kept playing.”
Hampton’s season began slowly, but he quickly became a critical component of the Chargers’ offense after veteran running back Najee Harris suffered a season-ending Achilles injury during the first half of a game against the Broncos in Week 3. With Harris out, Los Angeles relied heavily on Hampton, who delivered a standout performance with a team-high 129 yards from scrimmage and his first NFL touchdown in a 23-20 victory.
Since his return in Week 14, Hampton has continued to impress, notably with a strong outing against the Dallas Cowboys, where he rushed 16 times for 85 yards and a touchdown. Despite his potential return, the Chargers are expected to split the workload between Hampton and Kimani Vidal, a sixth-round pick who has excelled in Hampton’s absence. Vidal currently leads the Chargers in rushing yards with a total of 643.
As the Chargers prepare for their playoff matchup, Hampton’s enthusiasm and determination to contribute to the team’s success signal a pivotal moment for both the player and the organization. The outcome of this game will not only impact the team’s playoff journey but also mark a significant milestone in Hampton’s rookie season.
