The 2025 NFL Draft is just a few weeks away and who the Chargers should take in the early rounds is becoming more clear. There are a lot of holes to fill, with a presumed interest in addressing the offense as soon as possible to surround Justin Herbert with the caliber of weapons the offense has lost over the last two years.
They're in good position to accomplish that this year, with three top-100 picks, and the most recent mock drafts continue to have offensive players be their first rounder. Even more specific, addressing the backfield has gotten more popular over the last few weeks, with the highlight of UNC running back Omarion Hampton going to Los Angeles.
It might not be the most beloved pick in the first round for a few reasons. Most notably, many fans and analysts don't advise taking a running back with a high pick, even more so when it's considered a deep class. It also becomes a bit more questionable when you sign a guy like Najee Harris in free agency.
However, if the goal is to bolster the offense to make Herbert's job much easier in 2025, considering Hampton might be inevitable. It could become even more serious in the days leading up to the draft, as the Broncos are slowly becoming a favorite to add him to their roster instead.
If Omarion Hampton is on the Chargers' radar, they might need to trade up in the 2025 NFL Draft
Over the past week, Hampton has risen in the ranks on draft boards across the league and is now expected to be taken in the top-20 of the first round. Previously, he was projected to go a bit later, maybe even in the second, but his interest has since skyrocketed.
That means the Chargers, who have the 22nd overall pick, might need to move up if they take a liking to the running back, especially if the Broncos are also looking his way. They hold the No. 20 selection, meaning they could easily snag him before the Chargers even get a chance.
It makes sense that Denver would be looking to add one of the best running backs of the class to its offense after losing Javonte Williams in free agency. Those currently on the roster won't make the same impact that Hampton would, giving second-year quarterback Bo Nix the most well-rounded group to work with this fall.
That could force the Chargers to make a trade up, but would it be worth it?
The addition of Harris to the backfield is a big upgrade after Gus Edwards' exit, and the hope is he will be exactly what the offense needs to elevate Herbert's game. That could mean Jim Harbaugh and Co. don't view the position as one of tremendous need, like taking a running back in the first round and waiting to take a player later.
Fans are more likely to agree with, even if that ultimately results in Hampton going to a divisional rival. There are other more suitable players to take with pick No. 22 that would yield the same kind of production for the Chargers, whether it be on offense or defense.