Jim Harbaugh reveals whether or not top Chargers rookies will play in this week’s Hall of Fame game

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Adam Holt | Last updated Jul 29, 2025 4:39 PM ET

The Los Angeles Chargers have gotten off to a quick start. They began training camp a bit earlier than the rest of the NFL, and they're getting prepped to play in a game before you know it. Jim Harbaugh's team will face off against the Detroit Lions this Thursday night, July 31st.

The Hall of Fame Game is an annual preseason exhibition game that takes place during the week of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement. The two teams that play in the Hall of Fame Game are chosen by the league and often feature teams associated with those being inducted that year. It is the first game of the NFL Preseason and it always takes place in Canton, Ohio at the Pro Football Hall of Fame. -- NFL.com

Jim Harbaugh announces playing statuses for multiple rookies

Harbaugh announced that rookie running back Omarion Hampton and rookie wide receiver Tre Harris will both play in the game. Fellow rookie WR KeAndre Lambert-Smith will also suit up.

Chargers HC Jim Harbaugh says Omarion Hampton, Tre' Harris, KeAndre Lambert-Smith, and Derius Davis will play in the Hall of Fame game.
— Alex Insdorf (@alexinsdorf99) July 29, 2025

Harbaugh also revealed that quarterback Trey Lance will start for the Chargers.

The announcement came from Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh, who added that Lance will play through the first half and into the third quarter. It's easy to forget that Lance is still only 25 years old and that at this time last year, he was making a lot of plays in Cowboys training camp, and that the 49ers, who have been to two Super Bowls in the past six years, thought Lance was worthy of the third pick in the draft. -- Rob Gregson

All wide receivers other than Ladd McConkey and Quentin Johnston will be active for Los Angeles. There will be plenty of impactful roster pieces playing in this first exhibition game for the Bolts.

It remains to be seen what defensive pieces will be in action for Los Angeles on Thursday evening. No matter what - the Chargers are clearly valuing this opportunity to see some of their young talent shine early in their NFL career.