After missing the past two seasons due to a knee injury from a jet skiing accident, Nyheim Hines was eager for a chance to play. This past Monday, Hines secured an agreement with the Los Angeles Chargers, as per ESPN.
In July 2023, Hines suffered injuries after being struck by another jet ski rider, which included a torn ACL, preventing him from taking the field in 2023. He signed with the Cleveland Browns for the 2024 season but remained on the non-football injury list.
The 28-year-old noted to The Charlotte Observer this month that he is “far from done” and believes his health and “explosiveness” are still intact. With the Chargers, he will compete with free agent acquisition Najee Harris and 2025 draft pick Omarion Hampton at the running back position. Harris is expected to begin training camp on the non-football injury list after suffering an eye injury during a fireworks mishap.
L.A. ranked mid-field last year in total rushing yards (1,882) but lagged behind in yards per carry at 4.1. Hines considers himself a capable pass-catching running back, adept at running between tackles and contributing to return plays.
“I don’t need a lot of touches; I just want the opportunity,” said Hines on Sirius XM Radio. “Just give me some space, and my career reflects how I perform with a little opportunity.”
Hines began with the Indianapolis Colts from 2018 before being traded to the Buffalo Bills during the 2022 season. His career totals include 1,202 yards and 10 touchdowns on 306 carries, also achieving 240 catches for 1,778 yards and eight touchdowns, along with four return touchdowns.
