Los Angeles Chargers get sobering news following Week 6 win over Dolphins

The Los Angeles Chargers, a professional football team in the National Football League (NFL), are facing a critical decision regarding their running back position. With the departure of their star running back, Melvin Gordon, in free agency, the Chargers are left with a significant void in their backfield. The team’s current options at running back are limited, and they must quickly come up with a contingency plan to ensure they have a strong and reliable rushing attack in the upcoming season.

The loss of Gordon, who signed with the Denver Broncos, leaves the Chargers without a proven and consistent running back. Gordon was a key player for the Chargers, providing them with a dual-threat option as both a runner and receiver out of the backfield. His departure has created a major hole in the team’s offense, and the Chargers must find a suitable replacement to maintain their effectiveness on the ground.

In the absence of Gordon, the Chargers’ current options at running back are Austin Ekeler and Justin Jackson. While both players have shown flashes of potential in limited playing time, they lack the experience and consistency of Gordon. Ekeler, who served as the team’s primary backup last season, is a dynamic and versatile player who excels as a pass-catcher out of the backfield. He has shown the ability to make plays in space and create mismatches against opposing defenses. Jackson, on the other hand, is a more traditional between-the-tackles runner who has displayed solid vision and patience as a ball carrier.

Despite their individual strengths, Ekeler and Jackson may not be enough to fill the void left by Gordon. The Chargers need a plan B at running back to provide depth and insurance in case of injury or ineffectiveness. It is crucial for the team to have a reliable backup option to step in and contribute if either Ekeler or Jackson were to go down. Additionally, having a plan B will allow the Chargers to maintain a balanced offensive attack and keep defenses honest.

In addition to a plan B, the Chargers may also need to consider a plan C at running back. While Ekeler and Jackson have shown promise, neither player has proven themselves as a true workhorse back capable of handling a heavy workload over the course of a full season. The team may need to look outside of their current roster for additional depth and talent at the running back position. This could involve signing a free agent running back or drafting a rookie in the upcoming NFL Draft.

One potential option for the Chargers to consider is signing a veteran running back in free agency. There are several experienced backs available on the market who could provide the team with a reliable and proven option at running back. Players like Devonta Freeman, Lamar Miller, and Carlos Hyde are all available and could provide the Chargers with a veteran presence in the backfield. These players have a track record of success in the NFL and could help stabilize the team’s running game.

Another option for the Chargers to consider is drafting a running back in the upcoming NFL Draft. The draft is a valuable opportunity for teams to acquire young and talented players who can make an immediate impact on the field. The Chargers could target a running back in the early rounds of the draft to provide them with a long-term solution at the position. Players like Jonathan Taylor, D’Andre Swift, and J.K. Dobbins are all highly regarded prospects who could step in and contribute right away for the Chargers.

Regardless of the approach the Chargers take, it is clear that they need to address their running back position sooner rather than later. The running game is a critical component of any successful offense, and the Chargers cannot afford to neglect this area of their roster. By having a plan B and possibly a plan C at running back, the team can ensure that they have the depth and talent necessary to compete at a high level in the NFL.

In conclusion, the Los Angeles Chargers need to prioritize finding a plan B at running back in order to maintain a strong and effective rushing attack. The departure of Melvin Gordon has created a significant void in the team’s backfield, and they must act quickly to address this issue. Whether it’s through free agency, the draft, or internal options, the Chargers must find a reliable backup option to complement Austin Ekeler and Justin Jackson. By having a plan B in place, the Chargers can ensure that they have a well-rounded and dynamic running game that can help them succeed in the upcoming season.

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Source: Sporting News