The Los Angeles Chargers are heading into their final regular-season game with clarity on what matters most.
With a playoff spot already secured and division hopes no longer in play, Los Angeles has approached Week 18 with caution and intent. That approach came into sharper focus with the release of the team’s final injury report, which included a definitive update on one of their young running backs.
That update centers on Omarion Hampton.
Chargers Make Call On Hampton Ahead of Season Finale
Hampton has been officially ruled out for Sunday’s matchup against the Denver Broncos due to an ankle injury.
The second-year running back was unable to practice throughout the week, and the Chargers elected not to push him back for a game with limited competitive stakes. With the postseason ahead, the decision reflects a broader emphasis on long-term availability rather than short-term depth.
While Hampton’s role has fluctuated this season, he remains an integral part of the team’s backfield. Sitting him now allows Los Angeles to avoid unnecessary risk and preserve flexibility heading into January.
Health-First Decisions Shape Chargers’ Injury Report
Hampton was not the only player affected by that mindset.
Cornerback Nikko Reed has also been ruled out with a hamstring injury after missing practice all week. Meanwhile, offensive lineman Jamaree Salyer and safety Elijah Molden are listed as doubtful, both dealing with hamstring issues and unlikely to be pushed into action.
The questionable list includes center Bradley Bozeman (concussion), running back Hassan Haskins (concussion), safety R.J. Mickens (shoulder), cornerback Benjamin St-Juste (shoulder), and running back Kimani Vidal (neck).
Vidal’s status has trended positively after progressing to full participation, though availability appears to be more about discretion than necessity.
Chargers Make Call on Justin Herbert
Quarterback Justin Herbert will not play in the season finale, a decision confirmed earlier in the week by head coach Jim Harbaugh.
Herbert continues to recover from surgery on his left hand, and with division stakes gone following the Week 17 loss to Houston, the Chargers opted to protect their franchise quarterback. Trey Lance will start in his place.
One veteran who is expected to take the field is Keenan Allen. Allen returned to practice after an early-week rest day and has indicated he will play, with multiple contract incentives still within reach. His presence stands out on a roster otherwise shaped by rest, rotation, and evaluation.
Final Word for the Chargers
The Chargers’ injury report reflects a clear and consistent philosophy.
By ruling out Omarion Hampton and resting key contributors like Justin Herbert, Los Angeles is choosing preservation over urgency. Week 18 is not about measuring strength or chasing marginal gains. It is about ensuring the roster enters the postseason intact.
Hampton’s absence fits squarely within that plan.
For the Chargers, the priority is not Sunday’s result.
It is being ready for what comes next.
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