Nyheim Miller-Hines' NFL comeback attempt was facilitated this summer by the LA Chargers, who needed running back depth after Najee Harris suffered an eye injury on a firework mishap on the Fourth of July. Miller-Hines became one of the most-used running backs in the preseason as he fought for a spot on the 53-man roster.
Miller-Hines did not make the 53-man roster as the Chargers opted to carry just three active backs with Harris ready to play in Week 1. Miller-Hines did land on the practice squad, though, continuing his dream of returning to NFL action.
Unfortunately, the Chargers threw a wrench in Miller-Hines' plans on Tuesday. The Chargers released Miller-Hines from the practice squad on Tuesday to sign linebacker Kana'i Mauga, who was with the team in the preseason.
Chargers release Nyheim Miller-Hines, potentially ending his NFL comeback
Miller-Hines was attempting to play in the NFL for the first time since the 2022 season. With a clean bill of health for the first time since 2022, Miller-Hines was looking to extend his NFL career with the Chargers.
Being cut from the Chargers' practice squad doesn't end his journey back to the NFL, but it certainly does create a snag. Miller-Hines now has to hope that another team is willing to sign him to the practice squad, as he is not going to land an active roster spot anywhere in the NFL.
From there, Miller-Hines has to hope that the stars align for him to return to the league. From there, the veteran running back will have to prove he still has juice, especially after a fairly mediocre showing in the preseason for the Chargers.
The Chargers cut Miller-Hines in favor of adding more linebacker depth to the practice squad. Veteran linebacker Denzel Perryman will miss several weeks with a high-ankle sprain, which has a ripple effect on the rest of the linebacker room.
Mauga showed some special teams value in the preseason. He likely won't be evelated on gamedays but he is an option for the team if the Bolts suffer another injury to the linebacker position.
The Chargers clearly feel okay about their running back depth and Najee Harris in particular. Los Angeles wouldn't have made this move otherwise as Kimani Vidal is the only running back on the practice squad.