The Chargers Should Have One of the Deepest RB Rooms in the NFL
· Yahoo Sports
The Chargers have made it clear that they want to establish the run under Jim Harbaugh. After adding Mike McDaniel as offensive coordinator this offseason, that commitment should only become stronger. While Omarion Hampton is expected to lead the way, what makes this backfield so intriguing is the depth behind him.
There are very few teams in the NFL that can match what the Chargers have assembled at running back heading into the 2026 season.
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Everything starts with Hampton. Despite missing time with an ankle injury during his rookie year, the former first-round pick flashed exactly why the Chargers invested in him. He showed power between the tackles, surprising burst in the open field and soft hands as a receiver. He finished his rookie campaign with 545 rushing yards and five total touchdowns in just nine games, giving Chargers fans plenty of reason to believe a breakout season is on the horizon. With a healthier offensive line and McDaniel designing the offense, Hampton could take a massive leap.
The biggest difference from last season is what sits behind him.
Kimani Vidal proved in 2025 that he can handle a significant workload. When Hampton went down, Vidal stepped into a larger role and responded with 643 rushing yards and three touchdowns. He isn’t just an emergency option anymore. He’s a proven contributor who can start games if needed without the offense completely changing its identity.
Then there is Keaton Mitchell, who may end up being one of the most underrated additions of the Chargers’ offseason.
Mitchell brings something that the backfield lacked a year ago: elite speed. His acceleration and home-run ability fit perfectly in McDaniel’s offensive system. Defenses will have to account for his explosiveness every time he touches the football. Even if he only sees a handful of touches each game, he has the ability to change the momentum with one play.
What makes this group even more dangerous is the supporting cast around them. The addition of fullback Alec Ingold gives the Chargers one of the best lead blockers in football while McDaniel’s zone-based rushing attack has consistently produced productive running games throughout his coaching career. Pair that with an offensive line anchored by Rashawn Slater, Joe Alt and Tyler Biadasz and the foundation is in place for this unit to thrive.
The NFL has become a league where teams rely on multiple running backs instead of one workhorse. The Chargers appear to be built perfectly for that reality. Hampton can wear defenses down, Vidal can keep the offense on schedule and Mitchell can provide the explosive plays that change games.
If everyone stays healthy, don’t be surprised if the Chargers enter the season with one of the deepest and most versatile running back rooms in the entire NFL.