The Chargers' 2025 camp begins with Jim Harbaugh building 'calluses,' but a fireworks injury to RB Najee Harris creates an early test for the team's depth.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The energy at The Bolt is undeniable. With Jim Harbaugh mic'd up and preaching a new brand of toughness, the 2025 Chargers training camp is in full swing. But the optimistic buzz hit its first speed bump Wednesday with the news that star running back Najee Harris will miss the start of camp due to a non-football injury, creating an unexpected test for the team's depth and a massive opportunity for the next man up.
We're building calluses. We're building a culture of resilience.
You can feel the shift in El Segundo. Head Coach Jim Harbaugh's presence is palpable, and his philosophy was on full display as mic'd up footage captured him demanding energy and fundamentals. His message to the team is clear: build 'calluses' for the mind, body, and soul to withstand the grind of an NFL season. From engaging with fans to personally coaching up rookies, Harbaugh is actively forging a new, tougher identity for a Chargers team hungry for success.
The biggest news of the day was the unfortunate setback for running back Najee Harris. The team's marquee offseason acquisition is expected to miss the beginning of camp after a fireworks mishap. While team sources thankfully indicate the injury is not season-threatening, his absence is a blow. The Chargers were eager to see their new one-two punch in the backfield, but Harris's debut will have to wait until he is medically cleared, putting the team's 'next man up' mentality to an immediate test.
With Najee Harris sidelined, the spotlight immediately shifted to the Chargers' promising draft class. First-round pick Omarion Hampton is taking full advantage of the extra reps, drawing praise for his work ethic and showing glimpses of the power that made him a top prospect. He's not the only newcomer making noise. On defense, pass-rushers Jamaree Caldwell and Kyle Kennard are battling for snaps in the post-Joey Bosa era, while tight end Oronde Gadsden II has also been a consistent standout in early drills. The youth movement is officially underway.
The theme of transition extends across the roster. New tight end Tyler Conklin spoke about the challenge of battling Derwin James Jr. daily in practice, a true 'welcome to the Chargers' moment. He also paid respect to the recently retired Mike Williams, calling him a 'true professional and leader' and acknowledging the void the veteran leaves. As the team adjusts to new faces on offense, they also unveiled a fresh look off the field, dropping slick new alternate uniforms that have sent a jolt of excitement through the fanbase.
While the Harris news is a temporary setback, the narrative from camp is one of forward momentum. A new coach is building a resilient culture, a wave of exciting rookies is making an immediate impact, and a fresh identity is taking shape. All eyes now turn to the preseason opener against the Detroit Lions on August 1st. It will be the first real glimpse of Harbaugh's Chargers and a crucial audition for young players like Omarion Hampton, who now have a golden opportunity to shine.
