The Los Angeles Chargers had high hopes for Najee Harris when they signed the former Pittsburgh Steelers standout, envisioning him as the answer to their running back struggles. Known for his durability and power, Harris was expected to be a key weapon for quarterback Justin Herbert. But an unexpected off-field incident has thrown those plans into uncertainty, leaving the team—and fans—wondering when their new star will finally suit up.
Chargers GM Joe Hortiz Delivers Optimistic Week 1 Projection
Chargers GM Joe Hortiz expressed optimism Saturday night that running back Harris will be ready for Week 1.
“Najee’s doing great and going through all the medical protocols,” Hortiz said during CBS coverage of the Chargers’ final preseason game against the San Francisco 49ers. “He’s on track, and I think he should be able to go, hopefully in Week 1.”
Hortiz’s comments stand out, as head coach Jim Harbaugh has remained noncommittal about Harris’ status throughout the preseason. On Thursday, Harbaugh again offered no concrete update.
Chargers GM Joe Hortiz Najee Harris "on track" to ply Week 1, story:https://t.co/FreWyAzkQi
— Kris Rhim (@krisrhim1) August 24, 2025
“When Najee’s ready to play, he’ll be ready to play,” Harbaugh said. “Right now, going beyond today would be going over the legal limit.”
The uncertainty stems from a July 4 incident that left Harris with what his agent, Doug Hendrickson, described as a “superficial” eye injury. The Chargers have yet to provide an official description, which aligns with Harbaugh’s usual approach: he rarely discusses injuries until league rules require disclosure, typically the week leading into the season opener. The coach often reminds reporters that he is not a medical professional and cannot give definitive injury updates.
Harris returned to the field for drills on Aug. 12 and has been working closely with an athletic trainer in recent weeks. Observers often see him wearing a helmet with a visor or dark glasses, keeping his eye injury out of sight. The only public glimpse came from Harris’ Snapchat on Aug. 6, showing his right eye closed, though Harbaugh has confirmed he can now open it.
Durability has been a hallmark of Harris’ career—he has never missed an NFL game. That reliability was a major reason the Chargers targeted him, and it now appears he has a legitimate shot to play in Week 1 as Los Angeles heads to Brazil to face the Kansas City Chiefs.
