Najee Harris Cleared for Week 1 as Chargers Prepare for Dual-Rush Strategy Against Chiefs
Los Angeles Chargers running back Najee Harris is set to make his return for the season opener against the Kansas City Chiefs. After missing a significant portion of the offseason due to an eye injury, there were uncertainties surrounding his readiness for the matchup.
Injury Background
Harris’s injury stemmed from a fireworks accident in July, which fortunately resulted in only cosmetic damage. Despite the relatively minor nature of the injury, it sidelined him for all of training camp and the preseason, leaving his availability for the start of the season in doubt.
As the week progressed, Harris was listed on the injury report, heightening concerns among fans and team officials alike. However, a positive update emerged on Thursday, signaling a promising turnaround for the veteran running back.
Injury Update
The Chargers’ final injury report indicated that Harris was able to practice fully throughout the week. By Thursday, he had been removed from the injury report entirely, confirming that he would indeed suit up for the crucial opening game.
“I’m ramping up to it, just trying to get back in that football shape,” Harris said earlier in the week. “But I am feeling good, though, and we’ll just see where it leads.”
Head coach Jim Harbaugh echoed this sentiment, stating, “Full on the injury report. He says he’s ready, and he looks ready to go.” This statement set the tone for optimism heading into the highly anticipated clash against the Chiefs.
Starter Situation: Harris or Hampton?
With the return of Harris, questions arose about the running back hierarchy within the Chargers’ offense. Rookie Omarion Hampton, who enters the league with substantial expectations, is also a key player in the mix.
Harbaugh confirmed that Harris is slated to start, which excited Chargers fans and fantasy football managers alike. However, there is a caveat: Harris’s starting position does not guarantee a lion’s share of touches. Given his extended absence, it’s anticipated that the coaching staff will take a cautious approach, gradually easing him back into the game.
“Those are really hard to predict, play counts and things of that nature,” Harbaugh commented when asked about Harris’s potential workload. “Get in there, play football and have at it. That’s kind of the mindset.”
As the game approaches, it seems likely that both Harris and Hampton will share the workload, creating a dual-backfield dynamic. This scenario may make both players risky options for those considering them in fantasy lineups for the season opener.
The Chargers are gearing up for a critical matchup against a fierce division rival, and how they utilize their running backs could play a pivotal role in their offensive strategy.
