Nyheim Hines Signs with Chargers After Two-Year Absence Due to Injury

Running back Nyheim Hines is reportedly making a comeback to professional football after being sidelined for two seasons due to an injury caused by a jet ski accident.

According to an ESPN report, Hines, 28, has signed a contract with the Los Angeles Chargers. This move marks a significant milestone in his career following a difficult period of recovery.

In July 2023, Hines suffered a torn ACL when he was struck by a jet ski. At that time, he was with the Buffalo Bills, where he served as the primary kick and punt returner on their roster.

Earlier, Hines signed with the Cleveland Browns in the 2024 offseason but did not appear in any games because of the ACL injury.

Now, Hines faces a challenging path to secure a spot on the Chargers’ roster. He will compete against Hassan Haskins, Kimani Vidal, and Jaret Patterson for the position of backup running back.

Competition for Playing Time

The Chargers have already established a strong running back duo ahead of Hines. They selected Omarion Hampton as their first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and also secured veteran running back Najee Harris in the offseason.

Harris, who has successfully rushed for over 1,000 yards in four consecutive seasons, is anticipated to begin training camp on the non-football injury list. This follows an incident where he sustained an eye injury during a fireworks mishap on July 4.

Hines’ Career Highlights

Throughout his time in the NFL, Hines has proven to be a dual-threat running back. Across 81 games, he accumulated 1,202 rushing yards with an impressive average of 3.9 yards per attempt and scored ten touchdowns.

In addition to his rushing performance, Hines also made a significant impact in the passing game, recording 240 receptions for 1,778 yards and eight touchdown catches, averaging 7.4 yards per reception.

Moreover, his special teams contributions have been noteworthy. Hines has two touchdown returns on punts and two on kickoffs over the course of his career, showcasing his versatility and playmaking ability.

The Road Ahead

As Hines gears up for the upcoming season with the Chargers, the spotlight will be on him to reclaim his place in the league after his lengthy absence. With a competitive environment in the backfield, he will need to demonstrate his skills and resilience to earn a spot on the final roster.

Ultimately, fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see how Hines integrates into the Chargers’ offensive scheme. His experience and talent could provide valuable depth to the team’s running game, especially given his history of impactful play.

While the road to a meaningful comeback may prove difficult, Hines’ determination and past successes could play a crucial role in his return to form as a valuable asset for the Chargers.