NFL running back Najee Harris continues to face significant challenges in his recovery from an eye injury sustained in a fireworks accident this past July 4. The incident has left Harris unable to open his left eye fully weeks later, sparking concerns about his playing future as the Los Angeles Chargers prepare for the upcoming season.
A prominent NFL reporter, Dov Kleiman, shared a recent image on social media showing Harris still struggling with his eye, emphasizing the severity of the injury.
“Heartbreaking: Chargers star RB Najee Harris shows on Snapchat that he still cannot open his left eye.” —Dov Kleiman, NFL Reporter
Najee Harris signed with the Chargers during the offseason on a one-year contract worth $9.5 million after a productive stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Harris has surpassed 1,000 rushing yards in each NFL season so far and earned Pro Bowl honors in 2021, marking him as a key player for the Chargers’ offense.
Vision is essential for a running back’s performance, and injuries affecting eyesight have previously ended athletic careers. For example, in 1999, Cleveland Browns tackle Orlando Brown suffered an eye injury after being struck by a penalty flag, which permanently affected his playing ability.
This latest setback for Harris opens the door for Chargers rookie Omarion Hampton, a 22-year-old two-time All-American, who has impressed during offseason workouts and is seen as a potential lead back if Harris is sidelined.
Fans have also drawn parallels to the 2015 injury experienced by Jason Pierre-Paul when a fireworks accident caused the former All-Pro defensive player to lose part of his right index finger. Pierre-Paul continued playing professionally until the Miami Dolphins released him in 2023, demonstrating that some athletes can persevere after severe injuries.
Chargers Coach Comments on Harris’ Prospects Ahead of Season Opener
Though it appears unlikely that Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh will risk Harris in any preseason games, his availability for the team’s season opener against the Kansas City Chiefs remains uncertain. The game is scheduled for September 5 at Arena Corinthians in São Paulo, Brazil.
Speaking to Sports Illustrated, Harbaugh expressed cautious optimism regarding Harris’ status for Week One:
“There’s a chance,” referring to Harris’ chances of featuring on Sept. 5. —Jim Harbaugh, Chargers Coach
“I don’t comment because I’m not a doctor. I’m not Mr. Harris’ agent either. I’m talking about what I know, and ‘Can he open his eye?’ ‘Yeah.’ —Jim Harbaugh, Chargers Coach
“I’ve looked into his eye. I can tell you stuff like that.” —Jim Harbaugh, Chargers Coach
Implications for Harris and the Chargers Moving Forward
Najee Harris’ ongoing difficulty with his eye injury creates uncertainty around his ability to contribute to the Chargers this season, especially given the importance of clear vision for a running back’s performance. His limited availability could shift significant responsibility to Omarion Hampton, reshaping the team’s offensive plans.
Fans’ apprehension about Harris’ career prospects is understandable, given how eye injuries have ended or severely altered the paths of other professional athletes. The Chargers will be closely monitoring Harris’ recovery as they approach a crucial early-season matchup against a strong Kansas City Chiefs team.
How Harris progresses in the coming weeks may have lasting effects on his career and the Chargers’ running game depth. The unfolding situation will remain a major storyline during training camp and preseason activities.