Breaking down the LA Chargers Depth Chart: The running backs
By Jason Reed
The running back position looks slightly different on the LA Chargers depth chart.
The LA Chargers had a key loss at the running back position in the offseason when Melvin Gordon signed with Denver Broncos. While some fans might not consider it a loss, the team still lost a Pro Bowl-caliber back with experience.
Luckily, the team was set up nicely to replace this loss after a breakout season from Austin Ekeler, where he became one of three running backs to post 900 receiving yards in a season since 2000 (he was seven away from 1,000).
The running back room does look a little bit different for the Chargers. Here is how the depth chart at the position currently stands.
RB1: Austin Ekeler
As we already alluded to, Austin Ekeler is the RB1 for the LA Chargers this season and he is ready for the role. Ekeler signed a nice $24.5 million contract extension in the offseason, coming a long way from being an undrafted free agent just a few seasons ago.
Ekeler has proven that he is lethal in the passing game and has made the most of his opportunities as a rusher. However, I would not be fully convinced that Ekeler can have a traditional RB1 workload and have over 1,000 yards.
There is two reasons for this. First is that he is going to be so involved in the passing game that it will naturally open doors for other backs to carry the ball more. Second is that Ekeler is not great in short-yardage situations, so that alone will take away some of his carries.
He is still a really talented running back who will set the table nicely for the offense. The Chargers have other talented running backs, though, that will get some key looks.