One analyst thinks that Najee Harris won’t last long with the Los Angeles Chargers, despite having just signed there from the Steelers.
SI’s Matthew Schmidt doesn’t just think that one rookie running back will leapfrog Harris in L.A. He thinks that two will.
Everyone knows Omarion Hampton, the stud out of North Carolina.
But Schmidt is excited about Raheim Sanders, nicknamed “Rocket,” who is an undrafted free agent out of Arkansas and South Carolina.
Here’s how he explains it:
Yes, Sanders went undrafted, largely due to a myriad of injury issues he dealt with over his final couple of collegiate campaigns. Knee, shoulder and ankle injuries plagued Sanders in 2023 and 2024, which came on the heels of a brilliant 2022 campaign in which he racked up 1,443 yards and 10 touchdowns on 6.5 yards per carry.
The 23-year-old began his career at Arkansas and spent three seasons there before transferring to South Carolina, where he rattled off 881 yards and 11 scores while averaging 4.8 yards per attempt in a solid comeback year in 2024. He also hauled in 27 receptions for 316 yards and two touchdowns.
Hampton obviously comes with more cachet, having put together a truly remarkable stretch at North Carolina, but Sanders was arguably more impressive against stronger SEC competition in 2022. He also looked pretty good last season, once again in the SEC.
Schmidt had even more to say: “There does exist a world in which Sanders could ultimately become the Chargers’ top running back moving forward. His six-foot, 230-pound frame is certainly impressive. Couple that with his sneaky speed, and he may develop into a dynamic weapon on the professional level.”
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The Chargers surely wouldn’t mind having one or two young running backs bring their cheap contracts along for the ride as Justin Herbert tries to lead L.A. to the playoffs and beyond. Could Sanders really do this?
Don’t bet on it, but it’s a fascinating concept. And Sanders does have a strong past, if he can stay healthy. Plus, never discount a guy nicknamed Rocket.
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