Ten rookies in the best situations to succeed in Year 1 and beyond

DRAFTED: Round 1, No. 22 overall

Hampton could not have landed in a better spot. Jim Harbaugh is known for wanting to pound the rock; the Chargers ranked 24th in rushing attempts and 25th in rushing yards in 2023 before improving under Harbaugh’s watch in 2024 to 11th and 17th, respectively. So, even with Najee Harris joining the Bolts’ backfield this offseason, the rookie should see plenty of opportunities. In fact, I believe Hampton will emerge as the starter at some point during the 2025 season due to his versatility and explosiveness. After all, Harris is averaging just 3.9 yards per carry for his career despite rushing for 1,000 yards in each of his four seasons in Pittsburgh. He’ll wear defenses down, but Hampton should be the featured back in Harbaugh’s offense this year and beyond.