The 2025 season kicked off with the Los Angeles Chargers defeating the Detroit Lions 34-7 in the Hall of Fame game. While some may focus on the game’s meaning—or lack thereof—most are likely more interested in individual performances, especially in terms of fantasy football potential.
Omarion Hampton – Running Back
Rookie Omarion Hampton had limited chances to showcase his talent during Thursday’s game. However, he started on his first drive, indicating that he might be vying for the lead role when the regular season begins. Given that he was a first-round pick and a product of free agency, it’s no surprise that Najee Harris was sidelined due to an eye injury from a fireworks mishap.
With Harris missing time, Hampton’s stock is rising. If he can secure a substantial share of the workload, he has the potential to be a strong fantasy asset, especially with a solid offensive line supporting a run-heavy strategy. Even if Harris returns quickly, Hampton has a decent shot at holding onto the job. I think I’d lean towards the younger talent in this case until I hear more updates.
Keandre Lambert-Smith – Wide Receiver
Lambert-Smith, along with Tre Harris, is part of a rookie receiving group aimed at bolstering a thin lineup. Both players started on Thursday while others, like Rudd McConkey and Quentin Johnston, rested. Although Harris was relatively quiet, Lambert-Smith made a notable reception for 24 yards, which definitely highlighted his presence that night.
He’s got some sleeper appeal, as he needs to outshine Regor to earn playing time in the X position. However, there’s still a lot to be determined in this developing scenario. If he can build on this performance, he could gain some traction as fantasy draft season approaches.
Tyler Conklin and Olondo Gadsden – Tight Ends
Last season, Dissly excelled as a tight end, finishing 26th in PPR points per game. The Chargers are adjusting and have brought in veteran Tyler Conklin from the Jets, alongside rookie Olondo Gadsden, who was selected in the fifth round.
In their first preseason outing, Conklin sat out, leaving Dissly and Gadsden to take on key offensive roles. Interestingly, Gadsden got involved in a significant way, which suggests he could either be ahead of Conklin or at least vying for snaps.
I have confidence in Conklin’s abilities; he’s reliable and can be a fantasy asset depending on matchups. Yet, Gadsden might emerge as a valuable player in this offense. He’s somewhat of a wildcard at this point, particularly if you’re participating in a two-tight end league.
Lions Offensive Players
The Lions opted to rest all their starters, and many backups didn’t see the field. Generally speaking, their starters are expected to be dependable fantasy performers. Players like Jahmyr Gibbs, David Montgomery, Amon St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Sam Laporta are all strong considerations for this year’s drafts. There aren’t many “sleeper” candidates unless injuries hit hard.
Ultimately, this is just the preseason’s early stage, and there’s plenty more to learn over the coming month. But for now, we can feel optimistic about Hampton while keeping an eye on Gadsden and Lambert-Smith.
