In a new episode of Chargers Weekly with Matt "Money" Smith, Los Angeles Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman spoke on the current makeup of the teams' running back room.
There have been seismic changes to the unit this offseason. Former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris signed with the team in free agency. The team also used their first-round pick on a running back for the first time in 10 years with the selection of Omarion Hampton.
Roman shares his thoughts on his new running backs
On Harris, Roman said he was "blown away" having watched him in the Chargers' spring practices.
"Watching him out here right now, I am blown away with this guy," Roman said of Harris. "His knowledge of the game, his ability, his movement skills. It's exciting."
Roman also said he was "really excited" about Hampton. But perhaps the running back he spoke the most about was unexpected given the Chargers' offseason. 2024 sixth-round pick Kimani Vidal got some praise for his offseason from LA's offensive coordinator:
"Kimani's (Vidal) looking really good," Roman said. "He's really taken a step. He's got an extra gear this year. He's really asserting himself out there."
The former Troy running back's roster spot was likely in doubt given the praise that both Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz have given to UDFA Raheim Sanders. So it's nice to hear that he's still making an impression on the coaching staff in his quest to make the 2025 53-man roster.
Roman also referred to "Rocket" Sanders as a "big, physical dude" and shouted out practice squad RB fixture Jaret Patterson.
The Chargers might have their deepest running back room in quite some time if Harris, Hampton, and Vidal all impress next season. While Harris and Hampton will take up the bulk of offensive volume this season, there's still plenty of opportunity for the other running backs on the roster. Keep in mind that Harris is only on a one year contract as the teams' depth RBs could push for future roles in the offense beyond 2025.