Oct 10, 2021; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler (30) is brought down by Cleveland Browns middle linebacker Anthony Walker (4) during the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Chargers News: Bolts RB Room Is Not in a Good Spot Before NFL Draft
The Los Angeles Chargers are set to upgrade their running back depth. They currently have one of the best running backs in the game, Austin Ekeler, but he could be on the move within these next couple of months.
They will most certainly add a running back in the draft next week, and depending on who they draft, that could be all the difference with the Ekeler being here or not. Nonetheless, another key running back will be needed with or without Austin. We're not sure who the Chargers will, but at the moment, it's not looking pretty, at least according to NFL columnist Mike Kashuba of Last Word on Sports. Kashuba ranked a handful of NFL teams running back rooms and ranked the Bolts in the 'Ugly' department.
The Ugly
Los Angeles Chargers
If this Austin Ekeler dispute gets out of hand, the Chargers are in trouble. Isaiah Spiller clearly is not a contributor to the team, and Josh Kelly is… fine. This team needs to draft another body, which has been a popular pick in most mock drafts. At least they have Zander Horvath at fullback to clear the way for whoever is on the team when the season starts!
If the Chargers lose Austin Ekeler, that could look bleak; however, running backs are expendable. That could quickly change if they hit in the draft or free agency. The Chargers will have an explosive offense in 2023 with Austin, and it could remain the same if they lose Ekeler and get a running back who can carry the load when needed.
One thing is for sure, the running backs behind number 30 have not been great. LA has yet to pick a solid running back to back up Austin, and they will need to this season.
Hopefully, LA can change that 'ugly' tag to good or promising.
