Kimani Vidal
Running Back #30
Kimani Vidal News
Kimani Vidal's Dynasty Value in Question Due to Uncertain Playing Time Outlook in Los Angeles
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal played a surprisingly important role in his team's offense in 2026, finishing the year with 779 scrimmage yards and four touchdowns on 171 touches across 13 games. The Chargers were forced to turn to Vidal early in the year due to injuries to running backs Najee Harris and Omarion Hampton. While Vidal is back with Los Angeles for 2026, his playing time is an open question. Hampton should be fully healthy for the start of the year and profiles as a three-down back. The Chargers also signed former Baltimore Ravens running back Keaton Mitchell to a two-year deal in free agency, which could signify that Mitchell has the upper hand on Vidal for the team's RB2 role. Despite the productive year in 2025, Vidal's dynasty value is trending in the wrong direction entering 2026.
May 7, 2026 11:28 AM EST
Kimani Vidal's Playing Time in Los Angeles an Open Question Heading into 2026
After starting the 2025 season on the practice squad, Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal was not expected to play a significant role in his team's offense. However, early-season injuries to Chargers backs Omarion Hampton and Najee Harris led to Vidal spending a sizable chunk of the year as his team's lead rusher. Across 13 games, the 24-year-old collected 779 yards from scrimmage and four touchdowns on 171 touches. Los Angeles re-signed Vidal this offseason, so he will be back in the mix for the Chargers in 2026. Still, Hampton is expected to be fully healthy and will likely return to the RB1 role. Additionally, Los Angeles signed former Baltimore Ravens running back Keaton Mitchell in free agency, which could push Vidal to the Chargers RB3 role. Despite the surprisingly strong year in 2025, Vidal's fantasy value in dynasty formats is questionable heading into 2026.
Apr 15, 2026 4:39 PM EST
Chargers Officially Re-Sign Kimani Vidal
The Los Angeles Chargers officially re-signed exclusive-rights free-agent running back Kimani Vidal to an undisclosed one-year deal, according to Howard Balzer of Cardinals Wire. Vidal saw a lot more work in 2025 than probably anyone was expecting, even Vidal. Early-season injuries to Najee Harris (Achilles) and Omarion Hampton (ankle) forced the 24-year-old into the RB1 role in L.A. last year, and it led to 155 carries for 643 yards and three touchdowns in 13 regular-season games. Vidal also had 16 receptions on 22 targets for 136 yards and another touchdown as a receiver. Harris won't return to the Chargers, but the Chargers added Keaton Mitchell to the running back room alongside Hampton, who will be in his second season in the NFL. Vidal figures to be the favorite to win the RB2 role to begin next season, but Mitchell will probably take a lot of valuable pass-catching opportunities. At best, Vidal will probably be a handcuff option for managers who select Hampton.
Apr 14, 2026 6:22 PM EST
Kimani Vidal Could Be Sliding Down the Running Back Depth Chart in Los Angeles
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal played a surprisingly prominent role in his team's offense in 2025, recording 779 yards from scrimmage and four touchdowns on 171 touches across 13 games (10 starts). After opening the year on the practice squad in Los Angeles, Vidal was thrust into a starting role after Chargers' backs Omarion Hampton and Najee Harris (Achilles) were both forced onto Injured Reserve, Hampton by an ankle injury and Harris with a torn Achilles tendon. However, Vidal's role with the Chargers could be significantly diminished in 2026. Hampton should enter training camp fully healthy and profiles as the team's clear lead back. Los Angeles also signed former Baltimore Ravens running back Keaton Mitchell to a two-year contract in free agency, which could signify that Mitchell has the edge on Vidal for the team's RB2 role. Vidal could still be worth rostering in deep dynasty formats as a depth piece, but his stock is fading given his murky playing time outlook in Los Angeles.
Mar 26, 2026 6:40 AM EST
Chargers Place Exclusive-Rights Tender on Kimani Vidal
The Los Angeles Chargers announced on Friday that they placed an exclusive-rights tender on free-agent running back Kimani Vidal to keep him around for the 2026 season. The Chargers also signed running back Jaret Patterson and safety Kendall Williamson to contract extensions. The 24-year-old Vidal was thrust into a bigger role than anticipated last year when both Najee Harris (Achilles) and rookie Omarion Hampton (ankle) went down with injuries. The former sixth-rounder in 2024 out of Troy had 155 carries for 643 yards (4.1 yards per carry) and three touchdowns in 13 regular-season games, adding 16 catches for 136 yards and another score. Vidal proved to be a reliable plug-and-play RB3/flex option for fantasy managers, although with Hampton returning as the Bolts' clear lead back, it will be difficult for Vidal to improve on his numbers in 2026.
Mar 6, 2026 12:04 PM EST
Can Kimani Vidal Maintain a Consistent Role in Los Angeles Heading into 2026?
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal emerged as a viable NFL rusher in 2025, recording 643 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 155 carries across 13 games played (10 starts). Vidal was thrust into a feature role in the Chargers' backfield early in the season after Los Angeles backs Omarion Hampton and Najee Harris went on Injured Reserve with ankle and Achilles injuries, respectively. A first-round draft pick in 2025, Hampton looks like the long-term RB1 in Los Angeles as long as he can return to full health in 2026 and beyond. However, Vidal may have done enough in 2025 to prove he is worthy of maintaining a role alongside Hampton. Additionally, the Chargers have brought in former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel as their offensive coordinator heading into 2026. In his time in Miami, McDaniel's best offenses supported quality fantasy production from multiple running backs. Vidal's dynasty upside is limited by Hampton's presence, but he still may be worth rostering as a solid handcuff option with some level of standalone appeal.
Feb 11, 2026 6:59 AM EST
Kimani Vidal Could be Chargers Lead Back in Wild-Card Round
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal could have a significant role on offense on Wild-Card weekend when the Bolts face off against the New England Patriots on Sunday night, as rookie RB Omarion Hampton (ankle) has yet to practice this week due to an ankle injury. Hampton was rested in the Week 18 regular-season finale versus the Denver Broncos, but he may have aggravated an ankle injury that landed him on Injured Reserve earlier this year. When Hampton was on the shelf, Vidal filled in nicely as a replacement RB1 for L.A., reaching the 100-yard mark three times while also scoring double-digit half-PPR fantasy points five times. The matchup against New England on the road is not a good one for the Chargers' running game behind a patchwork offensive line, but Vidal's increased volume alone as the RB1 would boost him to high-end RB2 territory in fantasy if Hampton isn't cleared to play.
Jan 8, 2026 6:26 PM EST
Kimani Vidal Set for Bigger Role Against Patriots?
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal only handled three rushing attempts for 12 yards and caught one pass for a two-yard loss in the Week 18 regular-season finale versus the Denver Broncos, despite the team resting rookie Omarion Hampton (ankle). Hampton did not practice on Wednesday and might have aggravated an ankle injury that landed him on Injured Reserve earlier this season. With Hampton's status uncertain for the Wild-Card game on Sunday night against the New England Patriots, the 24-year-old Vidal could become more interesting for fantasy playoff lineups. However, the matchup isn't a great one, with New England allowing the fourth-fewest half-PPR points per game to opposing RBs in 2025. Still, a big volume increase for Vidal if Hampton is out would put him in the RB2 conversation. Vidal filled in nicely as the Bolts' lead back with Hampton hurt this year, and he posted three 100-yard games.
Jan 8, 2026 12:17 PM EST
Kimani Vidal Active to Lead Backfield in Week 18
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal (neck) is officially active for Sunday's Week 18 contest against the Denver Broncos. He had been listed as questionable but was trending in the right direction after logging back-to-back full practices. The 24-year-old returns from a one-game absence and is expected to lead Los Angeles' backfield with rookie Omarion Hampton (ankle) sidelined. With that being said, we expect fellow running back Hassan Haskins to carve out a role, too. There's some uncertainty about how the Chargers will fare with Trey Lance quarterbacking the offense against a strong Broncos defense. If the Bolts struggle to move the ball on Sunday, we could see Vidal drop to the low-end RB3/flex tier.
Jan 4, 2026 4:00 PM EST
Kimani Vidal Set to Lead Chargers Backfield in Week 18
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal (neck) is listed as questionable for the regular season finale against the Denver Broncos, but is trending in the right direction to play after practicing in full on Thursday and Friday. Vidal missed last week's game against the Texans, but he will likely take over as the lead back to finish the regular season with Omarion Hampton (ankle) ruled out. The outlook for the second-year back and the Chargers offense isn't as favorable with backup QB Trey Lance starting in place of Justin Herbert (rest), but it could lead to a more run-heavy game plan. With fellow running back Hassan Haskins (concussion) also questionable, Vidal could be in line for a big workload, assuming he plays. It's a tough matchup, however, as the Broncos have allowed the fewest PPR points per game to running backs this season, making Vidal more of volume based RB2 option in Week 18.
Jan 3, 2026 2:09 PM EST
Kimani Vidal Tagged as Questionable for Week 18
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal (neck) is officially listed as questionable ahead of Sunday's Week 18 contest against the Denver Broncos. Vidal is trending in the right direction after getting in two straight full practice sessions to end the week. There seems to be a decent chance that he'll return from his one-game absence this weekend. He'd likely take over as the lead back with rookie Omarion Hampton (ankle) ruled out for this game. Fellow back Hassan Haskins (concussion) carries a questionable tag into this game as well. Backup quarterback Trey Lance is starting, which could lead to a run-heavy game plan for this offense. Vidal could be looking at a 20-plus carry game, assuming he's able to suit up. Without Vidal or Haskins, the Chargers would likely lean on Jaret Patterson or Amar Johnson. The Chargers' backfield is a situation to avoid in a game where the offense is expected to have a tough time moving the ball with a backup QB.
Jan 2, 2026 6:31 PM EST
Kimani Vidal Upgrades to Full Practice
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal (neck) upgraded to a full practice session on Thursday. Vidal started the week with a limited showing in practice on Wednesday. A full session on Thursday suggests that he's ready to play in the Week 18 regular-season finale on Sunday in Denver against the division-rival Broncos. Meanwhile, rookie Omarion Hampton (ankle) has yet to practice this week, and Hassan Haskins has been limited as he works his way through the NFL's concussion protocol. L.A.'s backfield is in flux entering the weekend, but if Hampton is held out, Vidal figures to be the team's lead back in Week 18. The 24-year-old would receive a volume boost, but expectations would need to be tempered in an offense led by backup quarterback Trey Lance against a stout Denver defense. Fantasy managers need to check back on Friday for more clarity on this backfield.
Jan 1, 2026 8:35 PM EST
Kimani Vidal Inactive on Saturday
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal (neck) is inactive for Saturday's contest against the Houston Texans. The second-year running back exited their victory over the Cowboys last weekend with this injury. During the week, Vidal was unable to practice on Tuesday and Wednesday but made progress on Thursday, logging a limited session, suggesting he could be in the mix to return. However, the Chargers will lean on the side of caution and keep him on the sidelines this afternoon. As a result, managers should expect rookie running back Omarion Hampton to operate as the clear RB1 in the offense while Hassan Haskins serves as the change-of-pace option. Hampton should be started in all formats as a low-end RB1 given his projected workload despite facing a formidable Houston defense.
Dec 27, 2025 3:28 PM EST
Kimani Vidal Questionable for Saturday, Risky Start if Active
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal is in a precarious position heading into a Week 17 matchup against the Houston Texans. Vidal is officially questionable after sustaining a neck strain last week. He managed a limited practice on Friday but was largely ineffective before exiting the game, posting just 2.2 yards per carry. He continues to be outshined by rookie Omarion Hampton, who has shown far superior explosiveness and vision. The Texans boast a top-seven rush defense that allows the fifth-fewest rushing yards in the league, making this a brutal environment for a struggling, banged-up back. Even if Vidal is active, his plummeting volume and lack of production make him an impossible start with fantasy titles on the line. He should remain on your bench this week.
Dec 26, 2025 10:19 AM EST
Kimani Vidal Misses Another Practice with Neck Injury
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal (neck) missed his second practice of the week after suffering a neck strain late in the team's Week 16 win over the Cowboys. After undergoing an MRI early in the week, he was considered day-to-day, but he has yet to return to the practice field, putting his availability for a Week 17 matchup with the Texans in question. Vidal had been splitting snaps with Omarion Hampton since the rookie returned from a prolonged absence due to an ankle injury, but if he is unable to suit up on Saturday, Hampton should see bellcow duties against a tough Houston front. The matchup is not ideal for championship weekend, but Hampton has looked dynamic since returning in Week 14 and could put up low RB1 numbers if he gets the backfield to himself.
Dec 24, 2025 8:28 PM EST
Kimani Vidal Considered Day-to-Day With Neck Strain
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal was diagnosed with a neck strain and is considered day-to-day after an MRI, according to Ian Rapoport. Vidal left Sunday's win over the Dallas Cowboys early in the fourth quarter. Before his exit, Vidal had five carries for 11 rushing yards. The Chargers leaned on rookie Omarion Hampton and Hassan Haskins to close out the game on the ground. The 24-year-old has stepped up when needed this season, totaling 152 carries for 631 yards and three touchdowns. Vidal could miss some time, but the belief is that the injury is not serious. If Vidal does miss time, Hampton and Haskins will get more work in the backfield in his absence.
Dec 22, 2025 3:45 PM EST
Kimani Vidal Injures Neck, Questionable to Return Sunday
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal (neck) exited during the fourth quarter of Sunday's Week 16 contest against the Dallas Cowboys. He is officially listed as questionable to return. At the time of his departure, he had just five carries for 11 rushing yards. After a couple of weeks splitting touches with Omarion Hampton, Vidal took on a smaller role this weekend while Hampton got more involved. Even if Vidal returns Sunday, he'll likely remain in a change-of-pace role. While he's sidelined, Hassan Haskins will operate as Los Angeles' No. 2 option out of the backfield.
Dec 21, 2025 3:37 PM EST
Kimani Vidal Continues to See Volume Heading into Week 16
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal led the backfield, playing 63% of snaps and handling 100% of the two-minute offense last week against the Kansas City Chiefs. While he struggled with efficiency, averaging just 2.8 yards per carry, he remains the team's primary receiving and pass-blocking option. This week, Vidal faces a Dallas Cowboys defense that has allowed 19 rushing touchdowns, tied for second-most in the NFL. Unfortunately, Dallas defensive end Quinnen Williams (concussion) is off the injury report and will look to shut down lanes for the run-heavy Chargers. Rookie Omarion Hampton's efficiency continues to threaten Vidal's effectiveness on early downs, limiting his upside. Fantasy managers should view Vidal as a low-end RB3 who needs to secure red-zone touches or PPR volume to be a reliable starter. He is a risky FLEX play this week.
Dec 19, 2025 9:05 PM EST
Kimani Vidal to Operate in Committee Moving Forward?
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal may still be a viable fantasy play in Week 16 if the team continues featuring him as they have, despite teammate Omarion Hampton's return to the field. Hampton missed a massive chunk of the season with an ankle injury. While he's been back for a few weeks now and saw a modest increase in snaps during his second game, Vidal has handily out-snapped him 93-47 over that time frame. The actual touch distribution has been much closer, with the rookie leading 31-28, although it's possible LA will still lean on the former at times, considering he was an excellent stand-in while Hampton was shelved. Vidal should have some decent flex appeal for fantasy until (unless) he's phased out of the game plan in his backfield mate's favor. They'll get an improved Dallas rush defense on the road this Sunday.
Dec 19, 2025 11:30 AM EST
Kimani Vidal's Volume Holds, But Production Remains a Question
Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal led the backfield in snaps, routes, and two-minute offense in the team's 16-13 win over the Kansas City Chiefs, but struggled to produce efficiently, rushing 12 times for just 33 yards while being outgained per carry by Omarion Hampton. Vidal's value continues to come from his role rather than explosiveness, as he remains the preferred back on passing downs. The Chargers' focus on a ground-heavy approach keeps Vidal relevant in fantasy, but his weekly output stays unpredictable. In Week 16, the Cowboys present a mixed matchup, allowing rushing touchdowns at a high rate but limiting overall efficiency. Vidal is seen as a low-end RB2 or flex option, especially in PPR formats, though his ceiling is limited by sharing the backfield.
Dec 15, 2025 5:47 PM EST
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