Kimani Vidal has been a revelation for the Los Angeles Chargers this season. He's stepped into a starting spot as seamlessly as you can ask from a backup, especially one with minimal NFL experience.
Vidal's presence has stabilized the Chargers' running back room while first-round rookie Omarion Hampton recovers from an ankle injury on a mysterious timeline. It's also saved general manager Joe Hortiz from having to bring in outside reinforcements, like the New York Jets' Breece Hall.
Hall's name has been swirling through the rumor mill for months. He's been mentioned as someone who could be on the move dating back to the offseason, and the Chargers have previously been linked to him. However, the Jets may no longer be shopping the 24-year-old, though that doesn't appear to be an issue for Hortiz and Co.
Kimani Vidal makes unlikely Breece Hall trade easier pill to swallow for Chargers
Despite the ongoing buzz surrounding Hall's future, ESPN's Dan Graziano doesn't envision a deal materializing, barring an offer the Jets can't refuse. New York's front office is seemingly at a crossroads, which has complicated matters.
"This one felt like a slam dunk for most of the season, but it has started to sound a little murkier over the past week," Graziano wrote. "... there are people in the Jets building who are leery of the idea of trading Hall. ..."
Of course, "there's a price for almost everything," as Graziano highlights. Nevertheless, it's becoming "more possible" that the Jets keep Hall, who's on an expiring contract, beyond 2025. With that in mind, New York is suddenly "more hesitant" to part ways with its standout tailback.
Hearing that someone of Hall's caliber is more or less off the table would typically be crushing. Yet, between the Jets re-evaluating his long-term standing with the club and Vidal's emergence, the Chargers don't need to cry over spilled milk.
Los Angeles is ostensibly content with their backfield situation. Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh has praised Vidal for handling his newfound workhorse role and looking the part. So, acquiring a bell-cow like Hall sounds quite unlikely.
A Chargers offense coming apart at the seams after a promising beginning to the campaign has found life again, largely because of Vidal. The 2024 sixth-round selection has posted 100-plus scrimmage yard outings in two of his first three starts this year. Moreover, here's how he ranks out of 55 running backs with at least 10 carries from Weeks 6-8 in the following metrics.
- Sixth in rushing yards (261)
- Sixth in yards after contact (126)
- 16th in yards per carry (5.22)
- Tied for sixth in rushing first downs (12)
- Sixth in explosive run rate (10.0 percent)
- 25th in missed tackles force per attempt (0.12)
Note: Stats courtesy of Fantasy Points' data suite.