Najee Harris expected to recover after injuring eye in fireworks mishap
Over the past few days, social-media users might have been shocked and saddened to learn that Los Angeles Chargers running back Najee Harris had, according to posters, “lost an eye with fireworks,” or, more specifically, was “partially blind due to the optic nerve being severely damaged from the firework’s discharge.”
The notices were persistent enough that the former Alabama All-American’s agent released a statement on Thursday.
“Najee Harris was present at a Fourth of July event where a fireworks mishap resulted in injuries to several attendees,” Doug Hendrickson said. “Najee sustained a superficial eye injury during the incident but is fully expected to be ready for the upcoming NFL season.”
On Thursday, the (San Jose) Mercury News reported Harris was among those injured in a mishap in Antioch, California. The Mercury News reported Harris went to two hospitals for treatment.
The Antioch Police Department issued a press release about the incident:
“On July 5, at approximately 12:18 a.m., the Antioch Police Department dispatch center received multiple calls reporting an explosion on the 2200 block of Spanos Street. When officers arrived on the scene, they discovered the aftermath of an explosion caused by fireworks.
“Antioch PD officers, ConFire and AMR provided medical aid and triaged the patients. Several victims had already left the scene before the first responders’ arrival and were treated at local hospitals. Antioch PD is working to find and speak with all individuals involved regarding this incident.
“This is an unfortunate accident, and our thoughts are with the family and all those affected during this difficult time. We ask for patience and privacy for the families as the investigation continues.
“The Antioch Police Department’s Investigations Bureau, consisting of Crime Scene Investigators and detectives with the Violent Crimes Unit responded to take over the investigation. This is an active investigation, and no further information will be released at this time. Any further information or additional press releases will be provided by the Investigations Bureau.”
Harris is preparing for his first season with Los Angeles. Harris joined the Chargers in free agency for a one-year, fully guaranteed $5.25 million contract after playing his first four NFL seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
After joining the Steelers from Alabama’s undefeated CFP national-championship team for the 2020 season as the 24th choice in the 2021 NFL Draft, Najee Harris ran for at least 1,000 yards every season, climbed to sixth in rushing yards on the franchise’s career list and became the 10th player in NFL history with at least 4,300 rushing yards and 180 receptions in his first four years.
The Chargers’ rookies are scheduled to report to training camp on Saturday, with veterans coming in on Wednesday.
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Mark Inabinett is a sports reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on X at @AMarkG1.
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