Prior to Sunday's win vs. the Miami Dolphins, it was reported that the LA Chargers were making calls on the running back market in the wake of Najee Harris and Omarion Hampton's injuries.
While it was theoretically possible that running back Kimani Vidal's breakout performance vs. Miami changed the equation for the team, it appears they still are feeling out the market at the position. But that might not be the only spot that GM Joe Hortiz is interested in upgrading.
Senior NFL insider Josina Anderson reported on Tuesday that the Chargers are interested in both the running back and tackle positions prior to the November 4th trade deadline.
Perhaps the Chargers can make a move at tackle following a rash of injuries on the main roster
The Chargers have been battered with injuries at the tackle spot. Rashawn Slater suffered a season-ending injury before the season even started. Joe Alt suffered a high ankle sprain against the New York Giants.
Now, the Chargers are dealing with injuries to their third and fourth tackles on the roster. Trey Pipkins suffered a knee injury vs. Washington and couldn't play this past week while Jamaree Salyer suffered a setback in practice.
That left the Chargers to start Austin Deculus and Bobby Hart this week. While Los Angeles was able to get the win, they won't go against a Miami pass rush that's struggled to get to the quarterback every week. And Justin Herbert was still under some pretty intense pressure on key plays towards the end of the game.
Alt being able to return soon would be a boost, but it doesn't sound like there's quite as much clarity on when Pipkins and Salyer could return. Could IR be a consideration for either of them?
Finding a quality contributor for when Hampton is back at running back would make sense, even with Vidal's performance against Miami. But there would be no bigger boost to the team currently than materially being able to improve one of their offensive line spots midseason. However, expectations should probably be somewhat reserved. Starting quality linemen are rarely dealt midseason.
The Chargers will take on the Colts this week in a matchup of best on best in the AFC while Hortiz works the phones.