Chargers Seek Spark from Miami’s Jaylen Wright After Harris Injury
The Los Angeles Chargers, riding high on their 3-0 start, are facing a significant challenge in their backfield following a season-ending injury to veteran running back Najee Harris. Under head coach Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers have expressed a desire to ground and pound, and as the season progresses, this strategy may become crucial. With Harris sidelined, options are limited, prompting the team to explore potential additions to invigorate their running game.
Injury Fallout and Roster Limitations
The injury to Harris, who tore his Achilles during last Sunday’s game, has left the Chargers in a precarious position. Currently, first-round rookie Omarion Hampton is poised to shoulder a heavy workload, but behind him, the depth chart appears thin. Hassan Haskins, the only other running back on the 53-man roster, has minimal experience, having averaged just 3.1 yards per carry over 59 career attempts.
The practice squad does offer some options in Kimani Vidal and Amar Johnson, with one likely to be elevated ahead of the Week 4 matchup against the New York Giants. However, the Chargers may need to look beyond their current roster to find a suitable veteran presence to alleviate the pressure on Hampton.
A Potential Solution in Miami
One name that has emerged as a possible target is Jaylen Wright of the Miami Dolphins. Drafted in the fourth round last season out of Tennessee, Wright has had a quiet start to his NFL career, accumulating only 249 rushing yards. With the Dolphins’ depth at running back, including De’Von Achane and Ollie Gordon II, Wright has seen his role shrink significantly.
As the Dolphins consider their roster composition, Wright’s availability could be a boon for the Chargers. Reports suggest that a late-round pick in the upcoming draft could be sufficient to facilitate a trade. This potential move was highlighted by analysts, noting that Harbaugh’s comments on Harris’s injury signal a need for immediate action to maintain the Chargers’ momentum.
Gordon’s Rise Complicates Wright’s Situation
The emergence of Ollie Gordon II has further complicated Wright’s standing in Miami. Gordon, a sixth-round rookie, has impressed in his limited opportunities, amassing 12 carries for 50 yards and a touchdown through the first three weeks. Meanwhile, Wright’s lack of playing time, including a missed snap against the Buffalo Bills despite not being injured, suggests that he may need a fresh start elsewhere to unlock his potential.
For the Chargers, acquiring a young talent like Wright, who is just 22 years old and has had limited opportunities, could be a strategic move. With only 68 career carries, the potential for growth is substantial, making Wright an intriguing option to bolster the backfield alongside Hampton.
Looking Ahead
As the Chargers navigate the aftermath of Harris’s injury, the urgency to solidify their running game cannot be overstated. With a 3-0 record, they are in a position to be aggressive in their pursuit of roster improvements. Targeting Wright from Miami could be a pragmatic step that not only addresses immediate needs but also sets the stage for future success. The Chargers remain committed to building on their strong start as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
