INGLEWOOD, Calif. – Los Angeles Chargers running back Najee Harris left Sunday’s game against the Denver Broncos in the second quarter due to a left lower leg injury.
Harris collapsed after trying to run, immediately grabbing his left calf. Initially, the Chargers reported that he was doubtful to return due to an ankle injury, but later ruled him out.
Before leaving the game, Harris led the team with 28 yards on six carries. In his place, Omarion Hampton, the first-round draft pick, added 70 yards on 19 carries and a touchdown in the victory.
Mekhi Becton was also ruled out with a concussion.
Harris, who signed as a free agent with the Chargers in March, suffered an injury in a fireworks incident on July 4, which led him to the injured list before training camp. He missed all training camp practices, but was ready for the start of the season. The Chargers had been increasing Harris’ workload each week, and on Sunday he seemed on track to have the most carries and the most productive game of the season.
Harris has never missed a game in his NFL career. His durability is one of the reasons he was attractive to the Chargers, but that streak now appears in jeopardy.
Harris rushed for 1,000 yards in each of his first four seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers. His physical running style is something Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh values highly, and having him to start the season was crucial to the team’s potential in 2025.
