How serious is Najee Harris injury and what’s next for the Chargers?

The Los Angeles Chargers are off to their best start in over two decades at 3-0, but their momentum now faces a major test. Star running back Najee Harris went down with a devastating Achilles injury during Sunday’s Week 3 win over the Denver Broncos, raising immediate concerns about his availability for the rest of the season.

How the Injury Happened

In the second quarter, Harris collapsed as he took a step out of the backfield, clutching his leg in visible pain. He was carted off the field and quickly ruled out for the remainder of the game. Initial reports described it as an ankle injury, but head coach Jim Harbaugh later confirmed it was an Achilles issue, with further imaging scheduled.

Before exiting, Harris had six carries for 28 yards, leading both teams in rushing yards at the time. The injury cut short what was shaping up to be his most promising performance of the young season.

Harris’ Troubled Start in Los Angeles

Harris, who signed with the Chargers after four consistent 1,000-yard seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers, was already facing challenges in Los Angeles. He averaged just 33 yards on nine carries across the first two games and had limited preseason action following an unusual eye injury from a July 4 fireworks accident.

The Achilles injury now compounds those struggles, potentially sidelining him for months.

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Impact on the Chargers’ Season

The Chargers have thrived behind Justin Herbert’s MVP-caliber play and a resilient defense, but losing Harris forces the team to rethink its offensive balance. Rookie running back Omarion Hampton is expected to take on a larger workload, while the offensive line and Herbert’s passing efficiency will face greater pressure.

Despite Harris’ exit, the Chargers rallied to beat Denver 23-20, proving their depth and resilience. But sustaining success in the AFC West without Harris’ veteran presence could prove difficult, especially in late-season matchups.

What’s Next for Najee Harris and the Chargers?

The recovery timeline for an Achilles injury is notoriously long, and early indications suggest Harris could be out indefinitely. While the Chargers remain unbeaten, they must quickly adapt their game plan. Harbaugh has already hinted at shifting more responsibility to his rookies and finding creative ways to maintain a balanced attack.

The Chargers’ unbeaten run remains intact, but Najee Harris’ Achilles injury casts a shadow over their future. His absence tests the team’s depth and forces rookies like Omarion Hampton into the spotlight. Whether the Chargers can maintain their momentum now hinges on how well they adjust without their star running back.

FAQ

Q1. What happened to Najee Harris in Week 3?

Najee Harris suffered a non-contact Achilles injury against the Denver Broncos. He collapsed while stepping out of the backfield and was carted off the field.

Q2. Is Najee Harris’ injury season-ending?

While the Chargers have not provided an official timeline, Achilles injuries often require months of recovery. Early reports suggest Harris could miss most, if not all, of the 2025 season.

Q3. How many yards did Najee Harris have before his injury?

Harris recorded 28 yards on six carries before exiting the game in the second quarter.

Q4. How has Najee Harris performed with the Chargers so far?

In three games, Harris totaled fewer than 100 rushing yards. He averaged 33 yards per game in Weeks 1 and 2 before his injury against Denver.

Q5. Who will replace Najee Harris in the Chargers’ backfield?

Rookie running back Omarion Hampton is expected to take over the starting role, with the Chargers adjusting their offensive strategy to support him.

Q6. Did Najee Harris have previous injuries before joining the Chargers?

Yes. He suffered an eye injury from a fireworks accident during the offseason, which limited his preseason action. However, he had been remarkably durable in his career prior to 2025, never missing a game with the Steelers.

Q7. How will Najee Harris’ injury impact the Chargers’ season?

The Chargers lose a proven 1,000-yard rusher, which could strain their rushing attack. While Justin Herbert’s passing and the defense remain strong, depth at running back will be tested.

Q8. When will Najee Harris return?

No official return date has been given. Achilles injuries often require 6–12 months of rehabilitation, meaning Harris is at risk of missing the remainder of the season.

Q9. What did Coach Jim Harbaugh say about the injury?

Harbaugh confirmed the Achilles injury and said Harris would undergo imaging. He expressed concern, noting that with an Achilles issue, “there is not a lot of optimism.”

Q10. Are the Chargers still AFC contenders without Harris?

Yes, but it will be more difficult. The Chargers’ unbeaten start shows promise, but sustaining it without Harris will require strong performances from rookies and consistent excellence from Herbert.