Posted on Dec 06

Chargers RB Hampton expected to return against Eagles after recovering from ankle fracture

Posted Dec 6, 2025

The Los Angeles Chargers are poised for a significant boost as rookie running back Omarion Hampton is set to return from injury just in time for their Monday Night Football matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Why it matters: Hampton's return is crucial for a Chargers offense that has faced challenges in the running game, especially following the season-ending injury of Najee Harris.

With Harris sidelined after suffering an Achilles injury, the Chargers have relied heavily on Kimani Vidal, who has stepped up significantly in recent weeks.
Hampton's ability to contribute could help stabilize the ground game and complement the team's aerial attack led by quarterback Justin Herbert.

What's new: After suffering a left ankle fracture in Week 5, Hampton has made a rapid recovery and returned to practice last week.

He was seen practicing in a blue jersey, indicating his readiness to participate fully, which is a positive sign for both him and the Chargers.
Prior to his injury, Hampton recorded impressive statistics, accumulating 129 yards from scrimmage and scoring his first NFL touchdown in a victory against the Denver Broncos.

Yes, but: While the return of Hampton is promising, the Chargers must ensure he is fully healthy before reintegrating him into the lineup.

Concerns about re-injury are valid, particularly given the physical nature of professional football.
As Hampton himself noted, "If it's up to me, I'll always play. But I got to wait for the doc. Whatever they say goes."

What to watch: The dynamic between Hampton and Vidal will be key in the upcoming game against the Eagles.

Vidal has proven to be a valuable asset, with three games of over 100 rushing yards this season and a notable performance last year where he had 43 carries for 155 yards.
Their combined efforts could create a formidable duo, allowing the Chargers to diversify their offensive strategies, particularly in run-heavy schemes like the outside zone.

Between the lines: Hampton's development and performance have been closely monitored since being selected by the Chargers with the No. 22 overall pick in April.

His early success—tying for second on the team in receptions and ranking third in the NFL for yards from scrimmage during Weeks 3 to 5—demonstrates his potential to become a cornerstone of the Chargers' offense moving forward.

The bottom line: The Chargers playoff aspirations may hinge on their ability to effectively utilize both Hampton and Vidal in the coming weeks.

With Hampton back in action, Los Angeles seeks to shore up its running game and enhance its offensive balance, ultimately positioning itself better for postseason contention.

As the Chargers prepare for the Eagles, all eyes will be on how effectively they can integrate their emerging talents and navigate the challenges of a competitive NFL landscape.

Chargers RB Hampton expected to return against Eagles after recovering from ankle fracture

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 6, 2025

Why it matters: Hampton's return is crucial for a Chargers offense that has faced challenges in the running game, especially following the season-ending injury of Najee Harris.

With Harris sidelined after suffering an Achilles injury, the Chargers have relied heavily on Kimani Vidal, who has stepped up significantly in recent weeks.

Hampton's ability to contribute could help stabilize the ground game and complement the team's aerial attack led by quarterback Justin Herbert.

What's new: After suffering a left ankle fracture in Week 5, Hampton has made a rapid recovery and returned to practice last week.

He was seen practicing in a blue jersey, indicating his readiness to participate fully, which is a positive sign for both him and the Chargers.

Prior to his injury, Hampton recorded impressive statistics, accumulating 129 yards from scrimmage and scoring his first NFL touchdown in a victory against the Denver Broncos.

Yes, but: While the return of Hampton is promising, the Chargers must ensure he is fully healthy before reintegrating him into the lineup.

Concerns about re-injury are valid, particularly given the physical nature of professional football.

As Hampton himself noted, "If it's up to me, I'll always play. But I got to wait for the doc. Whatever they say goes."

What to watch: The dynamic between Hampton and Vidal will be key in the upcoming game against the Eagles.

Vidal has proven to be a valuable asset, with three games of over 100 rushing yards this season and a notable performance last year where he had 43 carries for 155 yards.

Their combined efforts could create a formidable duo, allowing the Chargers to diversify their offensive strategies, particularly in run-heavy schemes like the outside zone.

Between the lines: Hampton's development and performance have been closely monitored since being selected by the Chargers with the No. 22 overall pick in April.

His early success—tying for second on the team in receptions and ranking third in the NFL for yards from scrimmage during Weeks 3 to 5—demonstrates his potential to become a cornerstone of the Chargers' offense moving forward.

The bottom line: The Chargers playoff aspirations may hinge on their ability to effectively utilize both Hampton and Vidal in the coming weeks.

With Hampton back in action, Los Angeles seeks to shore up its running game and enhance its offensive balance, ultimately positioning itself better for postseason contention.

As the Chargers prepare for the Eagles, all eyes will be on how effectively they can integrate their emerging talents and navigate the challenges of a competitive NFL landscape.