The first game of the burgeoning 2025 season is in the books, as the Los Angeles Chargers thumped the Detroit Lions 34-7 in the Hall of Fame Game. A Harbaugh-led team in the preseason, be it Jim or John, enjoys winning meaningless games. But unless you bet on this one, you’re more interested in how individuals played, especially those possible fantasy football sleepers.
Omarion Hampton – LAC, running back
The rookie rusher didn’t have much opportunity to show his skills Thursday night, but he did get the start and two carries on the first drive, showing he is currently in the lead for the regular season starting job. That news isn’t surprising, as he is their first round pick and free agency acquisition Najee Harris still hasn’t been able to practice due to an eye injury suffered during a fireworks accident in the offseason.
Hampton is shooting up draft boards as Harris continues to miss time. If he can win the bulk of the work, he’ll be in a good situation to be a strong fantasy back in a run-oriented offense with a strong offensive line. And even if Harris does get back soon, Hampton still has a reasonable chance to hold onto that job. Go with the younger back in this situation until further notice.
KeAndre Lambert-Smith – LAC, wide receiver
Lambert-Smith