Who Should I Start? Tony Pollard or Omarion Hampton

Tuesday, May 20, 2:34 PM

Tennessee Titans running back Tony Pollard (ankle) said his rehab and recovery efforts from a late-season sprained ankle have gone "great," and it has allowed him to prepare better this offseason compared to last. The former Dallas Cowboy enjoyed a relatively productive season in his first year with Tennessee, considering the poor offensive environment he played in. Overall, Pollard rushed 260 times for 1,079 yards and five touchdowns. He added 41 receptions for 238 yards through the air. While he should be penciled in as the team's RB1 again in 2025, he could split more time with Tyjae Spears if the former Tulane back can stay healthy. Additionally, sixth-round rookie running back Kalel Mullings, a 230-pound bruiser, could mix in near the goal line. Pollard continues to have RB2 upside and starting appeal in favorable matchups, but he might not operate as a workhorse next season.

Monday, May 19, 3:26 PM

NFL Insider Jordan Schultz reports that first-round rookie running back Omarion Hampton has agreed to a four-year, $17.77 million deal with the Los Angeles Chargers. The contract includes a $9.56 million signing bonus. Hampton and backfield mate Najee Harris are set to split time in Jim Harbaugh's offense, which caps the former Tar Heel's immediate upside. Still, his long-term outlook is looking quite rosy. Like Harris, the 22-year-old is a powerful, bruising back with a three-down skill set, though he possesses much more explosiveness than the veteran. Even if Hampton starts the season off behind his teammate in carries, it wouldn't be surprising to see him even out the workload over the course of the season -- if not outright taking the job if he adjusts quickly enough.