Introduction to the Incident
Los Angeles Chargers running back Najee Harris suffered an eye injury from a fireworks accident at a Fourth of July event, his agent, Doug Hendrickson, told ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Thursday.
Hendrickson said the accident injured several other attendees at the event in Antioch, California. One person was hospitalized after he lost fingers in the mishap, the San Francisco Chronicle reported, citing police.
The Extent of the Injury
Harris’ injury was "superficial" and the running back is expected to be ready for the upcoming NFL season, according to Hendrickson. This is a relief for the Chargers, who recently acquired Harris. The superficial nature of the injury suggests that Harris should not have any long-term issues stemming from the accident.
Career Background
Harris, a former first-round draft pick, spent the first four seasons of his NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers before signing a one-year contract with the Chargers this offseason. He was named to the Pro Bowl in his 2021 rookie campaign and has eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards in each of his four NFL seasons without ever missing a game. This level of consistency and performance is a significant asset to any team, and the Chargers are likely eager to see him on the field.
Team Preparation for the Season
Along with signing Harris, the Chargers also added to their backfield by selecting North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton with the 22nd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This move, combined with the acquisition of Harris, indicates the team’s efforts to strengthen their running game. Despite the injury, with proper recovery, Harris is expected to contribute significantly to the team’s efforts in the upcoming season.
Conclusion
The incident involving Najee Harris is a reminder of the risks associated with fireworks and the importance of safety during celebrations. Fortunately, Harris’ injury is not expected to impact his participation in the upcoming NFL season significantly. As the Chargers prepare for the new season, they can look forward to having a healthy Harris contribute to their team’s success.
FAQs
Q: What happened to Najee Harris?
A: Najee Harris suffered an eye injury from a fireworks accident at a Fourth of July event.
Q: How severe is the injury?
A: The injury is described as "superficial," and Harris is expected to be ready for the upcoming NFL season.
Q: What other moves have the Chargers made to strengthen their backfield?
A: The Chargers selected North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton with the 22nd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, in addition to signing Najee Harris.
Q: Is Harris’ participation in the upcoming season in jeopardy?
A: No, according to his agent, Harris is expected to be ready for the upcoming NFL season despite the injury.
