The 2025 NFL Draft is just weeks away, and it’s becoming increasingly clear who the Chargers might target in the early rounds. With several roster gaps to address, there’s a strong expectation that the team will prioritize upgrading the offense to give Justin Herbert the kind of support he’s been missing over the past two seasons.
Fortunately, the Chargers are well-equipped to make an impact, holding three picks in the top 100. Recent mock drafts consistently project them to go offense in the first round, with growing momentum behind selecting a running back—specifically, North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton has been a popular prediction.
The pick might not be universally praised. Taking a running back early in the draft is often viewed as risky, especially in a year where the position group is considered deep. Adding to the skepticism is the team’s recent signing of Najee Harris, which could make the choice feel redundant.
Still, if the top priority is to elevate the offense and ease Herbert’s burden in 2025, Hampton might be too tempting to pass up. And with the Broncos reportedly showing increased interest, the Chargers may feel pressure to act before he’s off the board.
If Omarion Hampton is on the Chargers’ radar, they might need to trade up in the 2025 NFL Draft
Over the last week, Hampton’s draft stock has surged, and he’s now projected to be selected within the top 20 picks of the first round. Not long ago, he was seen as a potential second-rounder, but interest in him has rapidly increased.
This rise puts the Chargers, holding the 22nd overall pick, in a tricky spot. If they’re high on Hampton, they may need to trade up, especially with the Broncos sitting at pick No. 20 and also rumored to be in the market for a running back.
Denver has good reason to target a top-tier back like Hampton, especially after losing Javonte Williams in free agency. The current options on their roster aren’t likely to match Hampton’s potential impact, which would give rookie quarterback Bo Nix a more complete offensive unit heading into the season.
That might push the Chargers to consider a move up—but is it worth the cost?
They already added Harris to the backfield to replace Gus Edwards, a move expected to boost the offense and support Justin Herbert’s play. That might lead Jim Harbaugh and the front office to feel comfortable waiting on a running back, rather than spending a first-rounder on one.
Most fans would probably support that approach, even if it means Hampton lands with a division rival. With pick No. 22, the Chargers could still find a player—on either side of the ball—who brings significant value without reaching for a running back.
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