Bolts From The Blue
Los Angeles Chargers running back Omarion Hampton could be a key contributor in his rookie year.
The Los Angeles Chargers began their rookie class with running back Omarion Hampton, the No. 22 overall pick in April’s NFL Draft.
Hampton fulfills a significant role as the team’s running back, and after J.K. Dobbins left for the division rival Denver Broncos, opportunity could come knocking early for the former North Carolina Tar Heel.
CBS Sports writer Chris Trapasso ranked the top five rookie running backs in terms of production for the upcoming season and Hampton came in at No. 4.
“I was lower on Hampton than the masses during the pre-draft process — he’s more old-school runner than the new-age types I prefer with side-to-side wiggle. He’s classic in every sense of the way. At nearly 6-0 and 221 pounds, he has traditional size, and he’s playing for a coach in Jim Harbaugh who’s as committed to the classic philosophy than any other in the NFL,” Trapasso wrote.
“Now, the Chargers did sign Najee Harris in free agency. He’s going to eat into Hampton’s touches in Year 1. Without question. I do think Hampton’s juice — 4.46 speed — and the fact he was a first-round pick in April will ultimately lead to him assuming No. 1 back duties in Los Angeles right away.”
While Harris is expected to receive a good chunk of carries within the offense, it’s clear that Hampton also will have a big role.
Teams don’t take running backs in the first round unless they feel very strongly about them, and Hampton definitely fits the bill.
Hampton will have a chance to earn his snaps when the team reports to training camp later this month.
