Los Angeles Chargers running back Najee Harris has been cleared for full contact after recovering from an eye injury sustained in a July 4 fireworks incident, and he expects to play in the team’s season opener against the Kansas City Chiefs this Friday. This development provides a significant boost to the Chargers as they finalize preparations for their first game of the season.
Harris suffered the injury during a fireworks mishap in his hometown of Antioch, California, in the early hours of July 5. The incident, which occurred around 12:20 a.m. on Spanos Street, resulted in injuries to multiple attendees, with some treated at the scene and others hospitalized. Harris’s agent, Doug Hendrickson, described the injury as superficial and assured that he would be ready for the NFL season, a prediction that has now come to fruition.
Having missed all of training camp due to the injury, Harris was placed on the non-football injury list and worked on the sidelines with a personal trainer while his teammates practiced. His recent return to the field culminated in Monday’s clearance for full-contact practice, a key milestone in his recovery process. Harris emphasized that his vision was not affected by the mishap and called the experience humbling, noting how quickly circumstances can change.
Coach Jim Harbaugh praised Harris’s performance in practice, highlighting his good awareness and progress, but remained cautious about his availability for the game, stating only that “there’s a possibility” he will play. This measured approach reflects the team’s commitment to ensuring Harris is fully prepared for the physical demands of NFL gameplay.
Harris, who has never missed a game in his four-year NFL career, expressed optimism about his return. “I’m ramping up to it,” he said. “This is my fifth day of practice. Just trying to get into that football shape. I’m feeling good, and we’ll just see where it leads.” He has been wearing protective gear like sunglasses or a tinted visor during practices, which he attributed to necessary precautions rather than an attempt to conceal the injury.
The Chargers’ running game stands to benefit greatly from Harris’s potential return, especially against a formidable opponent like the Chiefs. If he is unable to play, the team may rely more heavily on backups such as Hassan Haskins and rookie Omarion Hampton. Harris’s durability and experience make him a critical component of the offense.
In related team news, wide receiver Quentin Johnston has cleared concussion protocol after a frightening injury in a preseason game that left him motionless on the field. His recovery adds further depth to the Chargers’ receiving corps as they head into the season.
The season opener against the Chiefs in Brazil adds an international dimension to the game, and Harris’s status will be closely watched in the coming days. The team is adopting a day-by-day approach to his recovery, with updates expected to influence their final game plan. Harris’s return could provide a crucial advantage in what promises to be a highly competitive start to the season.