In a rather harrowing incident during Fourth of July celebrations, Los Angeles Chargers’ star running back Najee Harris suffered what was described as a “superficial” eye injury, the result of a fireworks accident. His agent, Doug Hendrickson, shared that despite the alarming nature of the mishap, Harris is expected to be fully ready for the upcoming NFL season.
The former Pittsburgh Steelers standout, now with the Chargers after signing a one-year deal that could be worth up to $9.25 million, was involved in a situation that could have been far worse. Hendrickson’s reassurance that Harris will join rookie sensation Omarion Hampton without delay is certainly a relief for Chargers fans.
While incidents like this can be career-altering—just ask Jason Pierre-Paul, who famously suffered severe hand injuries due to a similar mishap—Najee Harris appears to have escaped with minimal damage. In 2015, Pierre-Paul, then with the New York Giants, had to undergo the amputation of his right index finger after a fireworks accident, a stark reminder of how easily these celebrations can turn tragic.
As Harris prepares for the 2025 season with the Chargers, he does so with the weight of expectation. Drafted 21st overall by the Steelers in 2021, Harris quickly made a name for himself by churning out over 1,000 rushing yards every season, including an impressive rookie campaign with 1,200 rushing yards and a Pro Bowl appearance.
Looking ahead, Harris and the Chargers are set to face a tough opener in the 2025 season against the Kansas City Chiefs. The game holds additional intrigue as it will be part of the NFL International Series, taking place in São Paulo, Brazil. The Chargers will be hoping to break the Chiefs’ current seven-game winning streak against them—a task easier dreamt than accomplished.
Despite the recent scare, Harris, guided by experience and grit, seems poised to bring his A-game as the season unfolds, setting the stage for what could be an electrifying beginning to a new chapter with the Chargers. The Bolts will certainly look to leverage Harris’ ground game prowess as they aim to topple the Chiefs and alter the narrative in their storied rivalry.
