In a stunning turn of events, the Los Angeles Chargers’ running back room has been rocked by the placement of first-round pick Omarion Hampton on injured reserve, opening the door for a potential trade that could see Green Bay Packers’ running back MarShawn Lloyd emerge as a centerpiece in the Chargers’ backfield. Hampton, selected 22nd overall in last year’s draft, suffered a severe ankle injury in Week 5 against the Washington Commanders, sidelining him for at least four games. With the Chargers already reeling from Najee Harris’ season-ending Achilles injury in Week 3, the team is now scrambling to bolster its running game, and Lloyd could be the spark they need.
Hampton’s Rise and Fall
Omarion Hampton was beginning to carve out a significant role in Los Angeles’ backfield before his injury. Following Harris’ absence, the North Carolina product seized the opportunity, erupting for 128 yards and a touchdown on the ground, along with five catches for 37 yards, in a Week 4 loss to the New York Giants. He was on pace for another strong performance in Week 5, with 12 carries for 44 yards and six receptions for 26 yards, before the ankle injury cut his day short. According to Pro Football Focus, Hampton ranked ninth among qualifying running backs with an impressive 3.79 yards after contact per carry this season, showcasing his ability to power through tackles and keep drives alive.
However, the Chargers’ backfield depth is now critically thin. With Hampton sidelined and Harris out for the year, Los Angeles is left with Hassan Haskins, a former Michigan standout under head coach Jim Harbaugh. Haskins, however, has struggled to make an impact in the NFL, averaging just 3.0 yards per carry across his four-year career. With the Chargers ranking 26th in the league in rushing attempts entering Week 6, Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Greg Roman are likely desperate for a dynamic playmaker to revitalize their ground game.
MarShawn Lloyd’s Golden Opportunity
Enter MarShawn Lloyd, a third-year running back who has been buried on the Green Bay Packers’ depth chart. Drafted last year, Lloyd’s time in Green Bay has been marred by injuries, including a hamstring issue during this year’s preseason that caused him to miss the first four games. His injury-plagued rookie season limited him to just six carries, and with Josh Jacobs and Emanuel Wilson stepping up in the Packers’ backfield, Lloyd has become an afterthought. Speculation is mounting that the Packers may be ready to move on from the former USC star, and the Chargers’ current predicament could provide the perfect trade opportunity.
Despite his limited NFL action, Lloyd’s college tape suggests he could be a game-changer for Los Angeles. During his lone season at USC after transferring from South Carolina, Lloyd ran for 820 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging an impressive 3.97 yards after contact per carry, per Pro Football Focus. This metric is particularly appealing to the Chargers, as it closely mirrors the physical, tackle-breaking style that made Hampton and Harris effective before their injuries. Lloyd’s ability to gain yards after contact could seamlessly fit into Greg Roman’s run-heavy offensive scheme, which, while currently underutilized, remains a cornerstone of Harbaugh’s philosophy.
Why the Chargers Are All-In
The Chargers’ passing game has taken a step forward this season, but their lackluster rushing attack has hindered their ability to control games. Acquiring Lloyd, even if he’s not yet activated from injured reserve, could serve as both an immediate stopgap and a long-term investment. While he may not contribute right away, his potential to develop into a reliable complement to Hampton upon his return makes him an intriguing trade target. For a team like the Chargers, who are looking to stay competitive in a tough AFC West, Lloyd represents a low-risk, high-reward option.
On the other side, the Packers stand to benefit from moving Lloyd. With Jacobs entrenched as the lead back and Wilson proving his worth, Lloyd’s path to meaningful playing time in Green Bay is blocked. Trading him to Los Angeles could net the Packers a draft pick or a player to address other roster needs, allowing them to capitalize on Lloyd’s potential without further investment in a crowded backfield.
As the NFL trade market heats up, all eyes are on Los Angeles and Green Bay to see if a deal for MarShawn Lloyd materializes. For the Chargers, Lloyd could be the spark that ignites their running game, providing the physicality and explosiveness needed to complement their evolving passing attack. For Lloyd, a fresh start in Los Angeles could be the chance to finally showcase the talent that made him a standout at USC. As the Chargers navigate the next month without Hampton, the potential acquisition of Lloyd could send shockwaves through the league, establishing him as the unstoppable new centerpiece of their backfield.