Kimani Vidal

Los Angeles Chargers
Running Back #30
Los Angeles Chargers
Running Back #30

Kimani Vidal News RotoBaller

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


Kimani Vidal Maintains Flex Value in Split Backfield, Faces Tough Chiefs Run Defense

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal heads into Week 15 against the Kansas City Chiefs with an almost evenly split backfield, following the recent return of Omarion Hampton (14 carries for Vidal vs. 13 for Hampton). Vidal ran the ball 14 times for 44 yards (3.1 YPC) but made a notable impact with one reception for 60 yards, resulting in a 68.9% snap share. Chargers OC Greg Roman recently said he prefers a hot-hand approach, but right now, he is "seeing two guys with the hot hand," which is "a good problem to have." Although the Chiefs are more vulnerable on the ground than through the air, they still rank in the top seven in rushing yards allowed, making this a tough matchup for both backs. RotoBaller projects Vidal as RB43 this week. Given his involvement in the passing game and the team's ongoing reliance on the run due to Justin Herbert's injury, Vidal is a low-end FLEX option in deeper leagues.

Dec 13, 2025 12:08 AM EST



Kimani Vidal Goes Over 100 Total Yards in Monday Night Win

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal recorded 14 carries for 44 yards while adding one catch for a team-leading 60 receiving yards on three targets in Monday's overtime win over the Philadelphia Eagles. Vidal still narrowly led the Chargers in carries over rookie Omarion Hampton, who handled 13 carries for 56 yards in his first game since Week 5. On the Chargers' first third down of the game, Vidal slipped out of the backfield for a checkdown from quarterback Justin Herbert and burst down the sideline for a 60-yard gain. It marked the longest play of the second-year back's career, and he continues to make the most of his opportunities. Since Vidal took over in Week 6 after Hampton's injury, he's totaled 131 carries for 569 yards and three touchdowns with 13 receptions (19 targets) for 102 yards and another score as a receiver, ranking as the RB13 in total PPR points in that time. The 24-year-old running back's role will decrease with Hampton back, but he should continue to stay involved as an important piece of the Chargers' offense.

Dec 9, 2025 12:54 AM EST


Kimani Vidal's Touches Expected to Decrease on Monday Night

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal is about to face a major change in his workload after a strong performance last week, where he had 25 carries for 126 yards and a touchdown against the Las Vegas Raiders. The ground game was heavily relied on after quarterback Justin Herbert fractured his hand, but rookie Omarion Hampton (ankle) has been activated from IR and is expected to return this week, with Hassan Haskins (hamstring) also practicing. Vidal now must compete again in a crowded backfield. The matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles looks promising, as they are a middle-ranked rush defense that was just run over for 281 yards on the ground by the Chicago Bears, and the likely absence of defensive tackle Jalen Carter further helps Vidal's case. RotoBaller projects Vidal as RB34 for this week. Due to the uncertain workload split with Hampton's return, Vidal should be considered a risky low-end RB3, as he is not assured of the majority of carries he had last week.

Dec 6, 2025 3:59 PM EST


Harbaugh: Kimani Vidal Has Played Like a RB1

Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh stated that running back Kimani Vidal has played like a #1 back this season. Harbaugh stated that "the proof is in the pudding" and "it warms the cockles of the heart. "After the injury to Omarion Hampton (ankle) that knocked him out for the past eight weeks, Vidal has stepped up and anchored the Chargers' rushing attack. Since Week 6, Vidal ranks 11th in the NFL in rushing yards and rushing attempts, and has averaged 13.5 PPR points per game. He was a huge part of why they were able to defeat the Raiders in Week 13, totaling 137 yards and a touchdown on 26 total attempts. With Hampton set to return in Week 14 when the Chargers host the Philadelphia Eagles, Vidal will still be a part of the rotation, but will lose the majority of his fantasy value with the rookie back.

Dec 3, 2025 10:12 PM EST



Kimani Vidal has Season-High in Rushing Yards in Win Over Raiders

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal bounced back in a big way during Sunday's game against the Las Vegas Raiders. In Week 11, Vidal posted a season-low 13 yards in the loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. The 24-year-old came ready to play out of the bye week this weekend. His biggest play of the game came in the third quarter when he rushed 59 yards for a score to give his team the lead. Vidal ended this game with a season-high 126 rushing yards on 25 attempts with one touchdown in the win. It remains to be seen how the workload is going to be split up once Omarion Hampton (ankle) returns to the mix. Fantasy managers will need to check back throughout the week to see how that situation shakes out ahead of Week 14.

Nov 30, 2025 7:48 PM EST


Kimani Vidal Should Bounce Back in Week 13

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal gave fantasy managers a dud during the Week 11 loss over the Jacksonville Jaguars. Vidal rushed the ball five times for 13 yards in the defeat. To be fair, the Chargers were getting blown out, so they basically had to abandon the rushing game. Vidal should return to his workhorse workload with Hassan Haskins (hamstring) and Omarion Hampton (ankle) both sidelined in Week 13. He'll draw a favorable matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders defense this weekend. Fantasy managers should feel comfortable plugging Vidal in as a RB2 for this Week 13 matchup.

Nov 30, 2025 8:53 AM EST


Kimani Vidal's Usage Should Remain Elite Heading into Week 13

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal is expected to see significant usage in Week 13 after rushing for only 13 yards on five carries against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 11. Teammate Hassan Haskins (hamstring) remains on IR, and rookie Omarion Hampton (ankle) has been ruled out, even though the team opened his 21-day practice window earlier this week. Vidal has been inconsistent lately, but is likely to handle most of the carries against the Las Vegas Raiders. The Raiders have a surprisingly strong run defense, allowing just 3.7 yards per carry (second-best in the league), which could challenge Vidal's efficiency. However, the Raiders' defense is also the league's worst at stopping goal-line touchdowns, boosting Vidal's scoring upside in a game where the Chargers' coaching staff might lean on the run if the team gets an early lead. Given the opportunity and Hampton's injury status, Vidal should be upgraded to a mid-range RB2 for this week.

Nov 28, 2025 4:54 PM EST


What Does Kimani Vidal's Fantasy Outlook Look Like Moving Forward?

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal has been the Chargers' primary running back while Omarion Hampton (ankle) has been working his way back from an ankle injury he suffered in Week 5. Recent reports have suggested that Hampton has been limited in practice all week and is expected to return to the lineup. The Chargers have until Saturday afternoon to activate Hampton from the IR, and that may determine the fate of second-year running back Vidal, out of Troy University, and whether he remains fantasy relevant or not. Once healthy, Hampton figures to handle a majority of the workload, as the rookie running back out of North Carolina has rushed for 314 yards and two touchdowns while catching 20 passes for 136 yards over five games this season and is clearly the better back from a skill-set standpoint, which is why the Chargers spent a first-round draft pick on him in the 2025 NFL Draft. Vidal has stepped in and has been productive in Hampton's absence, with 417 rushing yards, 52 receiving yards, and three touchdowns, and is deserving of earning a portion of the running back touches even with Hampton healthy. The question is whether that amount of touches is enough to remain fantasy-relevant or not. Fantasy managers should hold onto Vidal for another week or two and see how things play out while Hampton ramps up.

Nov 28, 2025 9:44 AM EST


Kimani Vidal to Lose Starting Gig Upon Hampton's Return

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal has been up and down as the team's primary rushing option over the previous few weeks. However, LA's backfield is due for a shift with teammate Omarion Hampton (ankle) working his way back to full health. Consistency has been an issue for Vidal, posting three outings of 95 or more rushing yards that were followed up with a performance of 30 or fewer. He was a fine fill-in while the team dealt with a myriad of injuries, but is set to see his touch share drop significantly as the rookie was expected to return at some point after the Chargers' bye week. It isn't a guarantee that Hampton will play when the team lines up against the Raiders in Week 13, meaning Vidal may have another week or two where he's playable. Still, his time as a viable fantasy asset is running thin.

Nov 21, 2025 11:13 AM EST


Kimani Vidal Struggles Again and Faces Role Uncertainty After Bye

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal carried the ball five times for 13 yards and caught two passes for -1 yards in the team's worst offensive showing of the year with a 35-6 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. He briefly left the game with a thigh injury before returning, but the offense never found its rhythm, running only 45 plays and maintaining possession for just 22 minutes. Vidal's roller-coaster season continued, fluctuating between productive games and complete duds. His workload might decrease after the Bolts' much-needed Week 12 bye, as rookie Omarion Hampton (ankle) appears close to returning from IR after shedding his walking boot and resuming side work in practice. If Hampton is activated in Week 13, Vidal could shift back into a secondary role. The bye week arrives at the perfect time for his recovery and for fantasy managers looking for clarity.

Nov 18, 2025 12:53 AM EST


Kimani Vidal Returns in Week 11 After Brief Injury Absence

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal (thigh) has returned to his team's Week 11 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars after briefly exiting due to a thigh injury. Keeping Vidal healthy is critical given that the Chargers' backfield is already without top running backs Omarion Hampton (ankle) and Najee Harris (Achilles). If Vidal were to suffer another injury, Amar Johnson and Trayveon Williams would be the likely candidates in Los Angeles to handle backfield work for the remainder of Week 11. As long as he can stay on the field, Vidal should be expected to dominate backfield work against Jacksonville.

Nov 16, 2025 2:29 PM EST


Kimani Vidal's Usage Is Elite, But Jaguars' Pass-Funnel Defense Limits Upside

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal had a big workload last week, with a 93% snap share and 25 carries for 95 yards and a touchdown. This week, however, he faces a challenging Jacksonville Jaguars defense that has become a significant pass-funnel, allowing the third-fewest rushing yards and only six rushing touchdowns all season. Jacksonville is good at preventing big plays, allowing zero rushes of 40 yards or more. With Hassan Haskins (hamstring) and Omarion Hampton (ankle) still on IR, Vidal's heavy usage as the lead back gives him a steady floor. Still, his production mainly depends on the Chargers building an early lead. Due to the Jaguars' tough run defense, Vidal is downgraded to a low-end RB2 this week, projected as RB20.

Nov 14, 2025 5:20 PM EST


Kimani Vidal Delivers Another Strong Performance On High Volume in Week 10 Win

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal handled another big workload as the team's lead back in Sunday night's win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, totaling 25 carries for 95 yards and a touchdown to go with one reception (one target) for 13 yards. Vidal has alternated breakout performances with duds over the last few weeks, but the heavy usage has remained consistent while he fills in for an injured Omarion Hampton (ankle). Fantasy managers will largely be happy with Vidal's production as an add off the waiver wire, scoring at least 17 PPR points in three of his five games as the Chargers' workhorse. The second-year back should get at least one more game as the team's top running back before Hampton is expected to return after their Week 12 bye. Vidal will rank as a mid-range RB2 in Week 11 versus the Jaguars.

Nov 10, 2025 12:27 AM EST


Which Kimani Vidal Will Show Up Sunday Night?

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal struggled against the Tennessee Titans' weak run defense, gaining only 30 yards on 12 carries, averaging just 2.5 yards per carry. This Week 10 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers presents a much tougher challenge, as the Steelers just held the league's top running back, Jonathan Taylor, to a season-low 45 yards. The Steelers have significantly improved their run defense since the first half of the season, making Vidal's chances of fantasy success highly dependent on a positive game script. With Hassan Haskins (hamstring) and Omarion Hampton (ankle) still on IR, Vidal will see the volume, but if the game stays close, a pass-heavy approach could limit his rushing opportunities. Vidal is considered a mid-range RB2 and a high-floor PPR FLEX option, projected as RB17. However, his ceiling depends on the Chargers securing an early lead.

Nov 7, 2025 5:51 PM EST


Kimani Vidal's Jekyll and Hyde Season Continues, Can He Bounce Back?

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal followed a standout Week 8 performance with a dud, gaining only 30 yards on 12 carries in Sunday's 27-20 win over the Tennessee Titans. He averaged just 2.5 yards per carry and was outperformed by both Justin Herbert (57 rushing yards) and Jaret Patterson (44 yards), who was elevated from the practice squad again. It's been a rollercoaster for Vidal, who alternates between breakout games and quiet ones. With Hassan Haskins (hamstring) and Omarion Hampton (ankle) both on IR until at least after the Week 12 bye, Vidal will continue to handle lead duties out of necessity. Next Sunday night, the Chargers face a Pittsburgh Steelers' defense that just shut down the league's top running back, Jonathan Taylor, so expectations should remain modest. With so many injuries and inconsistencies, it will be interesting to see if the Bolts' front office makes any trades to strengthen the running back position by the trade deadline tomorrow. For now, Vidal remains an RB3/FLEX option who relies on game script and red-zone opportunities.

Nov 3, 2025 5:23 PM EST


Kimani Vidal's Bell-Cow Status Meets League's Softest Run Defense

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal had another breakout performance last week with 23 carries for 117 yards and a touchdown, fully embracing his bell-cow role throughout the night. He now faces a Tennessee Titans defense that ranks 26th against the run and has surrendered a league-high 14 rushing touchdowns this season. With key defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons (hamstring) ruled out, the Titans' already fragile run defense is even more vulnerable. Additionally, backup running back Hassan Haskins (hamstring) is again ruled out, solidifying Vidal's volume advantage. RotoBaller projects Vidal as RB13 this week. He is a must-start in all leagues and a borderline high-end RB1.

Oct 31, 2025 5:15 PM EST


Kimani Vidal Thriving as Chargers' Lead Back

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal has taken over the starting role in Omarion Hampton's absence and made the most of it. Over his three starts, Vidal has logged 50 carries for 261 yards (5.2 YPC) and a touchdown, adding 39 yards and another score through the air. During that span, he's averaged 16.7 PPR points per game, ranking as the RB7. Vidal has handled roughly 70% of the snaps, with Hassan Haskins filling in on about 30%. That kind of workload in the Chargers' explosive offense gives the 2024 sixth-round pick significant upside. The Week 9 matchup is especially appealing, as the Titans have surrendered the second-most fantasy points to running backs this season. With no clear timetable for Hampton's return, Vidal should continue to command the backfield and deliver strong fantasy production.

Oct 30, 2025 10:11 AM EST


Kimani Vidal Scores Touchdown and Demonstrates High Efficiency in Week 8 Win

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal totaled 23 carries, 117 rushing yards, and one rushing touchdown during Thursday's Week 8 win over the Minnesota Vikings. He also caught one of his two targets for an additional 10 receiving yards. The 24-year-old capitalized on a positive game script and turned in a high-volume, high-efficiency performance on primetime. He has been quite effective since taking over for Omarion Hampton (ankle), averaging 16.7 rushing attempts, 2.7 receptions, 100 scrimmage yards, and 0.7 touchdowns per game over the last three weeks. Los Angeles is rumored to have serious interest in an external running back addition, but until that comes to fruition, Vidal will remain the Bolts' lead back. He has firmly established himself as the preferred option over Hassan Haskins, who had just one carry for three yards on Thursday Night Football.

Oct 24, 2025 12:17 AM EST


Kimani Vidal Could See More Opportunities Thursday Night

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal was limited in Week 7, rushing for only 20 yards on nine carries as the Bolts faced a negative game script for most of the day, throwing the ball 55 times. However, he remains the clear lead back, especially since backup running back Hassan Haskins (hamstring) has been ruled out for Thursday. This week, Vidal faces a Minnesota Vikings run defense that is middle-of-the-pack but showed strength last week by holding Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley to just 2.4 yards per carry. With Haskins out, Vidal is expected to get nearly all the early-down work and see more red-zone opportunities. The Chargers might also focus more on the run game to help reduce the pressure on Justin Herbert. RotoBaller projects Vidal as RB23, making him a reliable low-end RB2/FLEX option based on volume and potential red zone touches.

Oct 22, 2025 11:32 PM EST