Chargers Confront Running Back Challenge Following Najee Harris Injury
The Los Angeles Chargers began the season with a bang, boasting a perfect 3-0 record and establishing themselves as formidable contenders in the AFC West. However, the tides have turned with injuries beginning to stack against them. The loss of running back Najee Harris, who has been sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a torn Achilles, has left the Chargers scrambling for solutions in their backfield.
Relying on Rookies
With Harris out, the Chargers will lean heavily on their first-round draft pick, Omarion Hampton. This situation also creates a potential opportunity for last season’s sixth-round selection, Kimani Vidal, who is currently on the practice squad. The only other running back on the active roster is Hassan Haskins, presenting a thin lineup for a team that thrives on a strong rushing attack.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh may find himself needing to emphasize the running game as the season progresses, despite it not being the team’s primary strength thus far. As the Chargers navigate this unexpected dilemma, the search for additional talent in the free-agent market appears increasingly necessary.
Free-Agent Options for the Chargers
Jamaal Williams
At 30 years old, Jamaal Williams may not be the explosive runner he once was, but he remains a viable situational player. Known for his straightforward, powerful running style, Williams excels in goal-line scenarios. Originally a fourth-round pick by the Green Bay Packers in 2017, he has also had stints with the Detroit Lions and the New Orleans Saints. In 2022, he led the league with 17 rushing touchdowns, showcasing his ability to find the end zone. Over his career, Williams has accumulated 4,122 rushing yards and 32 touchdowns, along with 187 receptions.
Gus Edwards
Another option is Gus Edwards, who previously played for the Chargers last season after being one of the early signings under Harbaugh. The Chargers released Edwards in March following a lackluster season in which he rushed for 365 yards with an average of 3.6 yards per carry. With the team’s original plans derailed by injuries, re-acquiring Edwards could be a sensible move unless a more appealing alternative emerges.
D’onta Foreman
D’onta Foreman brings a wealth of experience, having played for seven different teams since being drafted in the third round in 2017. Most recently with the Cleveland Browns, Foreman started three games last season. While his success has been inconsistent, his adaptability across various offensive systems makes him a compelling option for the Chargers, especially during challenging times.
Joshua Kelley
Finally, there’s Joshua Kelley, a familiar face for Chargers fans. The fourth-round pick from 2020 struggled to find playing time behind Austin Ekeler, finishing his tenure with 1,148 rushing yards and six touchdowns over four seasons. After the Chargers moved on from Kelley following the 2023 season, he had brief periods with the New York Giants and Tennessee Titans. At just 27 years old, Kelley might be worth considering for a tryout, though it would likely be seen as a last resort.
As the Chargers weigh their options, the injury to Najee Harris has opened the door for new possibilities in their backfield. The coming weeks will be crucial as they reassess their roster and explore potential reinforcements in the pursuit of maintaining their early-season momentum.
