The Los Angeles Chargers’ running back Najee Harris, who sustained a “superficial” eye injury during a fireworks accident on July 4, is expected to be ready for the upcoming NFL season, according to a statement from his agent shared via ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The incident happened around 12:20 a.m. on July 5 in Harris’ hometown of Antioch, California, when a fireworks explosion injured several people. Harris was initially taken to John Muir Hospital in Concord before being transferred to Stanford Hospital.
The situation raised concerns reminiscent of the severe injury suffered by star pass rusher Jason Pierre-Paul in a July 4 fireworks accident in 2015, but Harris’s injury appears to be much less serious. Antioch police are still investigating the event, with no additional information released. Despite online rumors of serious eye damage, Harris’s agent issued a reassuring statement emphasizing that Harris is expected to be fully prepared for the season, although it’s still uncertain how the injury might impact his preseason training. The Chargers’ training camp kicks off on July 17.
This spring, Harris signed a one-year, $9.5 million contract with the Chargers, ending his four-year stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He is anticipated to be the lead running back for the Chargers, supported by rookie talent Hampton, the 22nd overall pick. Harris, known as the Steelers’ Iron Man for playing 17 games and rushing over 1,000 yards each season, made the Pro Bowl in his rookie year. However, doubts about his overall impact prevented him from achieving true stardom in Pittsburgh.
Fan Take: This update is crucial for NFL fans as Najee Harris is a key player who could significantly influence the Chargers’ running game this season. His recovery and preparedness will be closely watched, as it might impact both his performance and the dynamics of the NFL running back landscape.
