The Los Angeles Chargers faced a significant setback last season with the injury to their star running back, Najee Harris. Harris tore his Achilles during a play-action in the second quarter of a tight 23-20 victory against the Broncos in Week 3.
This injury forced the Chargers to rely heavily on Omarion Hampton and Kimani Vidal. While they stepped up, Harris' absence was felt, impacting the team's offensive depth and consistency.
Remarkably, Harris has shown impressive progress in his recovery. Just five months post-injury, his agent, Doug Hendrickson, shared a video on social media showcasing Harris running on a treadmill at a swift 15 mph. Given that Achilles injuries typically require 9 to 12 months for full recovery, this is a promising sign for both Harris and the Chargers.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh expressed confidence in Harris’ return, emphasizing his strong performance prior to the injury. "Najee will be back, I have no doubt about it," Harbaugh stated, reflecting on the unfortunate timing of the setback.
Harris' injury was particularly surprising given his track record. Before this, he had never missed a game in his NFL career, a testament to his durability. His consistent 1,000-yard seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers made him a valuable asset for the Chargers, who saw him as a key component for their 2025 campaign.
Adding another layer to Harris’ story, he had started the season on the non-football injury/illness list due to a July 4 fireworks accident that affected his eye. Despite missing training camp, he was ready for the season opener, showcasing his resilience.
Looking ahead, Harris is set to become a free agent after completing a one-year, $5.25 million deal with the Chargers. While there's potential for him to re-sign, the emergence of Hampton and Vidal has added depth to the Chargers' backfield, making the decision an intriguing one for both Harris and the team.