Los Angeles Chargers rookie running back Omarion Hampton is battling a serious ankle injury that has kept him out of practice on Wednesday and Thursday. However, while he’s clearly playing through pain, the rookie expects to suit up for the team’s Wild Card battle against the New England Patriots. When asked if he’ll play, he said, “that’s the plan.” While this isn’t official by any means, it certainly suggests the first-round pick will be on the field on Sunday night.
Omarion Hampton Injury Update: Chargers RB Plans to Play Against Patriots
This is great news for the Chargers, as Omarion Hampton and the entire offense have battled poor injury luck throughout the season. Hampton started the season behind veteran Najee Harris, but both players suffered injuries early in the season. In their absence, second-year veteran Kimani Vidal stepped up and proved himself to be a solid starter for this playoff-bound squad. While Hampton returned to the lineup, Harris is done for the season.
Even if Omarion Hampton can power through his ankle injury, look for Kimani Vidal to play a big role. The rookie first-round pick clearly won’t be at full strength, and the Chargers abysmal offensive line won’t create wide-open rushing lanes for either back.
So far in his short career, Omarion Hampton has appeared in nine games while making six starts. While on the field, the UNC product has recorded 545 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 124 attempts (4.4 yards per carry) to go along with 32 receptions for 192 yards and an additional score on 35 targets.
Omarion Hampton and the Chargers hope to earn the first playoff win of the Justin Herbert Era against the New England Patriots. Led by first-year head coach Mike Vrabel and MVP candidate Drake Maye, New England went from worst to first and won the AFC East with a 14-3 record.
Main Photo: Gary A. Vasquez – Imagn Images