Omarion Hampton's Rising Fantasy Value Creates Chargers Backfield Draft Dilemma

The Los Angeles Chargers backfield presents an intriguing fantasy football puzzle heading into the 2025 season, with rookie Omarion Hampton already making waves in preseason action. According to a recent analysis, Hampton started in Thursday's Hall of Fame Game against the Detroit Lions, rushing twice for nine yards in the Chargers' 34-7 victory, showing his signature burst and tackle-breaking ability on his first carry.

Hampton's fantasy draft value appears to be rising rapidly. Currently ranked as RB19 in preseason rankings with an average draft position of 41st overall, the 22-year-old rookie's stock could continue climbing. As a first-round pick (22nd overall), Hampton represents significant organizational investment, and his immediate insertion into the starting lineup suggests the Chargers view him as their primary back from day one.

The competition comes from veteran Najee Harris, who was recently acquired but is currently dealing with an eye injury that has him on the Non-Football Injury list. Harris brings four years of consistent production, averaging over 1,000 rushing yards per season with solid receiving ability (180+ career receptions). However, at 27 years old with heavy usage and a career 3.93 yards per carry, Harris appears to be entering his decline phase.

From a fantasy draft strategy perspective, Hampton offers the higher ceiling due to his youth, draft capital, and fit in Greg Roman's ground-and-pound offensive system. His current ADP around pick 41 may represent good value if he secures the workhorse role early. Harris, with an ADP around 99th overall, could provide depth and potential early-season value while Hampton adjusts to the NFL.

Fantasy managers should prioritize Hampton as a mid-round target with RB2 upside, while Harris serves as a later-round hedge bet with proven production history despite efficiency concerns.

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