Earliest Najee suits up? (1 Viewer)

[TheWinz]

After reading about Najee since July 4th, all I could picture was one-eyed Willie from The Goonies. Omarion Hampton shot way up my list and Najee Harris shot way down my list. Today, the Chargers depth chart comes out and they are only carrying Harris, Hampton, and Haskins (I'm not counting Matlock as a RB). Sure, they can activate someone if needed, but to me, that leads me to believe Najee is in fact pretty close to a return. The last thing I read was Harbaugh speaking in circles, but Hortiz saying he may be ready for week 1. Anyone on the FBG staff got some intel here? TIA

 

[Footballguys Staffer]

Hello! You seemed to have nailed it with those quotes. Najee Harris has been jogging on the sideline for individual drills, at least observed in camp/practice. He is a veteran and may not need much to get acclimated to the new offense. Harris was a fan of Harbaugh since his time with the 49ers -- Harris likely is familiar with the offense style.

A lot of "hopefully" and uncertainty around being ready to play in Week 1. There is the optimism with not being on the non-football injury list. Outside of the comments you noted from GM Hortiz and HC Harbaugh, it seems we are only able to speculate regarding Harris' return. There has not been much more news out as of right now.

Haskins could fill in for the first week, or two, as Harris gets back to the NFL play speed. Harris being on the active roster does tell us he should be ready to play. The main question will be when does his workload increase.

 

[TheWinz]

Not alot of data to go on when discussing eye injuries and rehab times. Just my guess, but once he does return, it will only take a few jarring hits to figure out if he is at risk for reinjury to the eye. Thanx for the fast reply.

 

[Joe Bryant]

I'm concerned about it. It's sort of uncharted waters and the worry with a jarring hit as you say is a real thing. It's got me concerned enough to likely let another GM take the risk.