Haskins or Vidal? Chargers OC Breaks Down LA’s Running Back Plan With Hampton Now Out

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While Yates expects Haskins to see the bulk of early-down work, Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman clarified the team’s approach to the backfield in a report from Daniel Popper of The Athletic:

“I don’t think so. I don’t look at it like that. I look at it as all hands on deck. …Those guys have got to be ready to spell each other at any point in time. Just work together.”

Roman’s remarks underline that the Chargers won’t designate a strict lead back, instead relying on Haskins and Vidal to rotate based on situation, game flow, and offensive needs. This philosophy emphasizes versatility and depth, particularly with Hampton sidelined.

Hassan Haskins: The Trusted Option

At 6-foot-2 and 228 pounds, Haskins is the more traditional back in this rotation — a north-south runner who can pass protect and absorb contact. Yates noted that Haskins “stands to get much of the first and second down work,” citing his familiarity with head coach Jim Harbaugh’s system and his ability to stabilize the offense.

Haskins has earned his reputation through college production — 1,327 yards and 20 touchdowns in his final season at Michigan under Harbaugh — and his early NFL work suggests he can handle the responsibility of carrying the ball regularly. “Assuming no major move this week, [Haskins] will be the guy that has the best chance to lead the team in carries,” Yates said.

Kimani Vidal: The Change-of-Pace Weapon

Vidal brings a different skill set to the table. At 5-foot-8 and 210 pounds, the undrafted rookie from Troy offers agility, quickness, and pass-catching ability. Yates highlighted that “Vidal will be a change of pace back… I think he’ll also get some work in the passing game.”

His early snaps indicate he can create yards after contact and provide an explosive option in space, especially on third downs. Vidal’s presence ensures the Chargers can maintain offensive flexibility while keeping defenses off balance.

Moving Forward

The Chargers’ next opponent, the Miami Dolphins, allowed a big day to backup Rico Dowdle, signaling potential opportunities for Los Angeles’ backs. With Roman’s “all hands on deck” approach, Haskins and Vidal will need to complement each other and keep the backfield productive until Hampton returns.

As Yates summarized for fantasy managers: “Add Haskins now — there’s a real shot he goes for 18 carries on Sunday.” For the Chargers, the logic is simple: reliability and depth are key while navigating an uncertain ground game.