4 free-agent running backs Chargers can sign to replace Austin Ekeler

Zach Moss

Speaking of connections, Zach Moss has the strongest connection to this Chargers coaching staff among all running backs not coming from the Baltimore Ravens. J.K. Dobbins is also a Ravens back who has ties to the team but the Chargers should stay far away because of his injury concerns. Instead, the team could target someone like Moss.

Moss did not play for the Ravens and has not played for offensive coordinator Greg Roman or head coach Jim Harbaugh. Moss has played for the team's new running back coach, however, as the Bolts recently hired Kiel McDonald from USC.

Moss played for McDonald in college when they were both at Utah and that connection may be strong enough to get him to Los Angeles. McDonald is obviously familiar with Moss's game and could put him in a position to succeed in LA.

Moss played very well as a supplementary back to Jonathan Taylor last season and had some huge games for the Indianapolis Colts. That is a great sign for a team like the Chargers. Los Angeles needs someone who can be part of a rotation and can also have a huge game from time to time.

The Chargers could build a running back room that is fully reliant on McDonald's ties. In addition to Moss, the team could also draft USC running back Marshawn Lloyd to give McDonald two backs who he is familiar with.