Chargers Ink First-Round Pick Hoping to Bolster Revamped Backfield
The Los Angeles Chargers have officially signed first-round running back Omarion Hampton, closing a major chapter in their 2025 draft class. As first reported by FOX Sports’ Jordan Schultz, the deal is worth $17.77 million over four years, including a $9.56 million signing bonus and a fifth-year team option, standard for all first-round selections. Hampton, who starred at North Carolina, entered the 2025 NFL Draft as one of the most complete and productive backs available. He led the ACC in rushing for two straight seasons, earning First-Team All-ACC and All-American honors in both 2023 and 2024. Over his college career, he racked up 3,565 rushing yards, 40 total touchdowns, and averaged almost six yards per carry over his final two seasons.
The Clayton, North Carolina native became a known force thanks to his vision, power, and breakaway ability. His junior season, in particular, was historic — rushing for 1,660 yards in just 12 games, the second-most in UNC history. He also tallied 19 100-yard rushing games, which ranked third in the nation during his three-year career. Hampton’s selection at the 22nd pick was viewed as a steal by many analysts, especially with the Denver Broncos reportedly eyeing him with the 20th pick. Ultimately, he landed with the Chargers, who are actively reshaping their offensive identity under head coach Jim Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Greg Roman.
He joins a backfield that already includes Najee Harris, signed to a one-year, five-million-dollar deal this offseason. While Harris has been a durable and steady presence since entering the league, concerns about his burst and big-play ability have persisted — which may explain why Los Angeles moved aggressively to draft Hampton. Also still in the mix is J.K. Dobbins, who started in 2024 but is currently a free agent. The Chargers extended a UFA tender to Dobbins, meaning they retain exclusive negotiating rights if he remains unsigned by July 22nd. Dobbins' potential return will likely depend on how ready Hampton is to take on a major role right out of the gate.
With Hampton now under contract, only second-round wide receiver Tre Harris remains unsigned from the 2025 draft class. While second-round deals can take time due to negotiations over guaranteed money, the Chargers are expected to finalize things before the start of training camp. The early signing of Hampton—sooner than last year’s first-round pick Joe Alt—marks continued momentum for the Jim Harbaugh-Joe Hortiz regime. The Chargers are aiming to field a younger, tougher, and more explosive team in 2025, and Hampton’s arrival adds a potential offensive centerpiece to that vision. If Hampton lives up to the hype he built at North Carolina, he could be a game-changer in a division loaded with elite talent. As the Bolts prepare to open the season against the Chiefs in Brazil, Hampton’s development will be one of the most-watched storylines of the year.
