Chargers plan to "share the load" among three running backs
The Los Angeles Chargers are planning to involve all three of their running backs in their offense this season, according to offensive coordinator Shane Steichen.
Steichen stated that the offense will feature more than just two running backs, and that "all three of those guys are going to share the load. They all bring something unique". With Melvin Gordon now in Denver, it appears that both Justin Jackson, and fourth-round draft pick Joshua Kelley will fill the gap behind Austin Ekeler. Jackson was one of the most efficient rushers in the league last season, recording the highest rushing success rate (65.5%) of all running backs with at least 25 attempts. Ekeler was hyper-effective through the air, registering a success rate of 72.3%, sixth-best among running backs with at least 20 receptions. Given Ekeler's smaller size, 5-foot-10, 200-pounds, Steichen appears to believe a three-headed approach is what's best for the upcoming season.
Ekeler earned Pro Football Focus' top receiving grade for running backs last year, 93.6, and ranked fifth overall at the position. In limited action(29 attempts), Jackson earned PFF's second-highest rushing grade, 89.5, and ranked seventh overall at the position.
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