The Los Angeles Chargers top running backs from 2023 are both now free agents. With regime change at the top offensive coaching spots, change in the backfield is inevitable. The new offensive coordinator, Greg Roman implied that the Chargers plan of attack on the ground has been lacking in recent years, saying, “Can you imagine Justin Herbert with a great running game? … We don’t know, but I can imagine what it might look like.”
The Chargers may want a top running back but until they are in the black with salary cap space they can’t even afford budget options. Cuts and restructures are coming down the pike for the team and they will need to add to the RB room, likely through the draft and free agency.
Los Angeles Chargers Eyeing Budget RB In Free Agency Linked to Harbaugh
Los Angeles Chargers Free Agent Running Back Target
Gus Edwards
Gus Edwards was added to the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent when Roman was in his second season with the team and resigned when Roman was the team’s offensive coordinator.
Edwards has never been in a bell-cow role, but he would be a complement to a drafted running back if the Chargers go in that direction. He’s been a reliable running back in his five seasons in the league. He has rushed for at least 700 yards and 5 yards per carry in four of his five seasons. He is also a quality pass blocker, he allowed just two pressures on 44 pass-blocking assignments.
Edwards is nearly 29 years old and had an ACL tear that forced him to miss much of the 2021 season. But 2023 was his most productive season with 810 yards and 13 touchdowns.
Expected Contract: 2 yrs — $3.75m avg/yr
Antonio Gibson
Once the Washington Commanders drafted Brian Robinson, Antonio Gibson‘s role in the offense diminished year over year, but the former 3rd round pick is just two years removed from rushing for 1035 yards and another 294 yards receiving.
Ball security has been an issue in the past with 13 fumbles in 61 games.
The 6’2″ 220 running back will be 26 years old heading into the season and has not missed any significant time due to injury
Expected Contract: 1 yr — $3.6m avg/yr
AJ Dillon
Much of what was written about Edwards is true about AJ Dillon. But he is younger and has been healthier than Edwards. He will be 26 when the season starts and has only missed time because of a COVID-19 diagnosis and missing three games at the end of last season.
Dillon is a true power running back. He isn’t a home run hitter, but won’t be taken down by the first defender. He is another candidate to be paired with a rookie running back.
Expected Contract: 2 yrs — $3.25m avg/yr