The Los Angeles Chargers won't have their leading rusher for at least the next four games.
Omarion Hampton will be placed on injured reserve due to the ankle injury that knocked him out of Sunday's loss to the Washington Commanders, head coach Jim Harbaugh announced on Monday.
Hampton was spotted in a walking boot following the game, which foreshadowed Monday's news. The rookie RB gained 70 scrimmage yards (44 rushing, 26 receiving) before exiting in the second half.
It's the latest blow to a Chargers team that's dealt with injuries all season.
Veteran back Najee Harris suffered a season-ending Achilles tear in Week 3. Khalil Mack's dislocated elbow has shelved the Bolts' defensive captain for an extended amount of time. Joe Alt, who moved to left tackle following Rashawn Slater's season-long injury, is dealing with a high ankle sprain that has forced him out of one game and counting.
Hampton has shown promise five games into his NFL career, producing 314 rushing yards on 66 carries (4.8 YPC) while scoring two touchdowns. The North Carolina product has also shown reliable hands with 20 receptions for 136 yards.
Hassan Haskins and Kimani Vidal are the remaining RBs on the Chargers' 53-man roster, with Amar Johnson on the practice squad. Haskins and Vidal have 368 career rushing yards combined.
The Chargers, who head to Miami in Week 6 on a two-game losing streak, will lack an experienced backfield in the coming weeks unless they decide to add a veteran option.
