The LA Chargers moved to 3-0 for the first time since 2002 with a roller-coaster win over the Denver Broncos on Sunday. While Chargers fans were happy in the end, much like the millions who ride rollercoasters at Disney theme parks, it wasn't all good for the Bolts.
The worst moment of the game came in the second quarter when veteran running back Najee Harris collapsed on a play-action fake. Harris fell to the ground while attempting to explode off the snap and suffered what Jim Harbaugh confirmed to be an Achilles injury.
In the same game, former Chargers back J.K Dobbins proved to be the most reliable offensive weapon for the Broncos, literally putting the team on his back for an entire touchdown drive. While the Chargers won the game, fans can't help but imagine what could have been if the Bolts simply kept Dobbins instead of signing Harris.
Chargers likely regret signing Najee Harris over J.K. Dobbins
Harris and Dobbins signed for the same amount, $5.25 million with incentives baked in, so it's not like the Chargers got outbid for their former back. In fact, Dobbins remained unsigned long enough for the Chargers to slap a rare UFA tender on him after the draft.
The Chargers had every chance to bring Dobbins back if they wanted him. The team wanted Harris instead, and that may come back to bite.
Harris has been a workhorse throughout his career who, up until this point, has not missed a single game. Dobbins, meanwhile, has an extensive history of injuries that made him a higher risk signing. The Chargers took what they thought was the safer bet. Unfortunately, the dealer pulled a 21 despite showing a six.
The Harris signing was debated at the time not because anyone expected him to suffer an Achilles injury or have a firework mishap, but because his numbers were misleading with the Steelers. Harris had four 1,000-yard seasons under his belt, sure, but he averages less than four yards per carry in his career.
Dobbins, meanwhile, was the engine of the Chargers' offense last season despite having an underwhelming interior offensive line. The Chargers' offense went as far as Dobbins could take it, so it made little sense for the Bolts to kick him to the curb.
Thankfully, the Chargers have a talented first-round running back in Omarion Hampton who can now carry the load. Hampton had his first true great game as a pro on Sunday with a stellar second half after Harris' injury.
However, there is only so far a rookie running back can take an offense. Having a veteran to split carries is extremely beneficial to a young back. Hampton could have had that with Harris. Instead, the Chargers are now left scrambling.