Chargers Training Camp: Najee Harris’s Eye Injury and Team Updates
As the Los Angeles Chargers gear up for training camp, the focus has turned to running back Najee Harris, who is likely to start the camp on the non-football injury list. This comes after he sustained a superficial eye injury during a July 4 fireworks incident in his hometown of Antioch. Chargers General Manager Joe Hortiz provided insights on Harris’s condition, indicating ongoing communication with medical professionals at Stanford University, where Harris is receiving care.
Despite the setback, the Chargers remain optimistic about Harris’s recovery. The team anticipates obtaining more details regarding his prognosis after he undergoes a medical examination by the Chargers’ doctors. Harris, who signed a one-season, $9.25 million contract with the team in March, has a strong history, having rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his four seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers. His impressive record at both the high school and collegiate levels puts significant pressure on his recovery, especially as the camp commences in El Segundo.
In addition to Harris, the injuries of wide receiver Mike Williams and safety Elijah Molden have been noteworthy, as both players were recently placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Hortiz remarked that he doesn’t expect these players to be sidelined for long, emphasizing their potential to rejoin the team shortly. Williams’s injury appears to be minor, an issue that cropped up during spring practices, and both he and Harris might return to the field quicker than anticipated.
Amid these injury updates, the status of rookie wide receiver Tre Harris has drawn attention as he remains one of 30 unsigned second-round draft picks. His absence from training camp raises concerns about the ripple effect on team dynamics, especially since practice time is invaluable for newcomers. Hortiz expressed hope that Tre would soon finalize his deal, allowing him to participate fully.
On a more positive note, left tackle Rashawn Slater reported to camp on time with the rest of the veteran roster. Discussions surrounding his lucrative contract extension are ongoing, though Hortiz preferred not to disclose specifics. Slater, a two-time Pro Bowl selection, is poised for a substantial upgrade from his current contract, which has garnered attention given that Trent Williams, a premier left tackle in the league, has an average annual salary over $27 million.
Finally, past experiences under former GM Tom Telesco hint at the Chargers’ successful history of securing extensions for key players in a timely manner. Notably, quarterback Justin Herbert and safety Derwin James Jr. signed their extensions just before or early during training camps in recent years. Hortiz remains optimistic about Slater’s negotiations, highlighting the positive nature of the discussions, indicating that both sides are committed to finalizing a deal soon.
In summary, as the Chargers approach the beginning of training camp, the narrative revolves around managing injuries and contract negotiations while cultivating the team’s roster. The return of key players like Najee Harris and Mike Williams will be critical to the team’s success this season. As coaches and management navigate these challenges, the focus remains on hitting the ground running in the upcoming training sessions.
