The Los Angeles Chargers will have several new looks in 2024 stemming from the new head coach on the sidelines, Jim Harbaugh.
Perhaps no other position on the roster will look as different as the running back position. Last season, the team’s top two rushers were Austin Ekeler and Joshua Kelley. Neither of them is on the team anymore.
Instead, the Chargers will be relying on a couple of free-agent signings and a sixth-round pick to start anew in L.A.
Los Angeles Chargers running back depth chart ahead of training camp
1. Gus Edwards
Number one and number two on this list are interchangeable. Gus Edwards has never been a No. 1 running back, but he gets the top spot on this list because he hasn’t missed most of the last two seasons like the guy at No. 2 has.
2. J.K. Dobbins
It’s not often that a running back misses nearly all of two consecutive seasons and still gets a chance to play a prominent role. But that is exactly the opportunity in front of J.K. Dobbins who is still only 25 years old and if he can stay healthy, will have a big chance to resurrect his career.
I can’t quit you, J.K. Dobbins. Man was special before injuries robbed us 🥹pic.twitter.com/UteGjuBLDU
— Kyle Lindemann (@LuckIsMadeFF) April 18, 2024
3. Isaiah Spiller
Just for the time being, Isaiah Spiller is the team’s No. 3 RB but his hold on that spot is not very firm. He will be on the roster bubble all summer.
4. Kimani Vidal
The Chargers chose Kimani Vidal in the sixth round of the draft and many analysts saw that as a great late-round grab. Vidal is the all-time leading rusher in the history of Troy University and he should have a great chance to replace what Ekeler gave the offense, at least to some extent.
5. Elijah Dotson
Last year’s preseason darling, Elijah Dotson ended up suiting up for four games for the team last year but was used sparingly. The team signed him to a future contract this offseason but he is most likely competing for a spot on the practice squad.
6. Jaret Patterson
Jaret Patterson began his career as an undrafted free agent and spent his first two seasons with the Washington Commanders.
Last year, he bounced between the Chargers and Commanders and was re-signed by the Chargers following the season. However, he is buried on this depth chart and will be used mostly just to get through camp and preseason games while auditioning for his next role.
