Chargers could be forced to make controversial Omarion Hampton choice upon his return

As the Los Angeles Chargers attempt to make their final playoff push upon their return from their bye week, the impending return of rookie running back Omarion Hampton provides a glimmer of hope for the resurrection of the viability of their offense.

Yet, when he returns, the Chargers' coaching staff could be forced to make a difficult decision. Is it best to limit Hampton's touches given the injury risk and the team's complete absence of effective run blocking?

Although Kimani Vidal has played well in Hampton's absence, Los Angeles's offensive line has been absolutely abysmal, especially when the team attempts to run the ball. While Hampton's return could help keep their playoff hopes alive, is it worth the risk to lean on him as heavily as they might like to?

Chargers will need to figure out a balanced offensive attack over the last few weeks of the season

As the season began, many thought that the Chargers run game would yet again be a serious strength for them. With a reliable lead back in Najee Harris and a dynamic rookie in Omarion Hampton, the team was, in theory, set to lean on their run game yet again in order to keep their offense going.

Of course, things almost never go according to plan in the NFL. Harris suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in Week 3, and Hampton has not played since he suffered an ankle injury in Week 5.

Yet, Hampton is likely set to return to practice soon, and, while it remains to be seen when he will ultimately return, it appears that it is impending.

Nevertheless, the Chargers may be forced to resist the temptation to give Hampton extensive run upon his return. Their offensive line, and especially the interior, have struggled mightily to cobble together any semblance of viable protection for their backfield. Although Los Angeles is 12th in rushing yards, they are dead last by a significant margin in the advanced metrics that measure run blocking.

As the Chargers attempt to resurrect their offense, the return of someone such as Hampton, who is capable of making explosive plays on a game-to-game basis, could have massive implications. Yet, is it worth the risk of reinjuring Hampton's ankle as he runs into non-existent gaps?

Before his injury, Hampton averged 13.2 touches per game. There may be a temptation, upon his return, to inflate these numbers, especially given the way in which the team's passing offense has floundered over the past few weeks.

Yet, because of their offensive line, it may be wise for the team to limit his touches until the end of the season, guaranteeing his health as they reset for the 2026 campaign. Without a doubt, this would be highly disappointing, but it may be the move that the team is forced to make.