Chargers Add Running Back Before Playoff Run
The Los Angeles Chargers running back room expanded on Monday. The Bolts have reportedly signed former Dallas Cowboy Ezekiel Elliot to their practice squad. Elliot was released by the Cowboys on December 31st and now has the chance to compete for a Super Bowl ring. The Chargers have hopes that Elliot will be ready to contribute to the 53 man roster and pick things up quickly. Elliot this year has produced 226 yards on 74 carries and has scored three touchdowns. He can be used in short yardage situations and is a viable target in the passing game.
On the current 53 man active roster, the Chargers running back room is full. J.K. Dobbins has been an outstanding back and a vital piece in Greg Roman’s offense. Bruiser back Gus Edwards has been useful in short yardage situations and Hassan Haskins has seen an uptick on snaps played on the offensive side. The Chargers also have rookie sixth round pick Kimani Vidal, who once given snaps has been producing.
So with a crowded running back room, why did the Chargers add Elliot? The Bolts two lead backs in Dobbins and Edwards have each missed at least four games this season. Dobbins has a long history of lower body injuries and was on injury reserved this year with a MCL sprain injury. Currently, Edwards has missed the last two weeks with an ankle injury. He injured his ankle in a Week 16 win against the Denver Broncos, which was his best performance of the season. Edwards' question mark might have played a key reason in the Chargers making this move. His ankle might not allow him to be ready for the AFC Wild Card game.
With Elliot, the Chargers bring in experienced playoff depth. Elliot has appeared in six postseason games. If Edwards is not able to go on Saturday versus the Houston Texans, Elliot might be called upon to contribute. Especially since Haskins and Vidal have never played a playoff game in their NFL careers.
Head Coach Jim Harbaugh when speaking to the media today mentioned that Edwards is expected to practice today. This will be Edwards first participation in practice since December 24th. Charger fans should keep an eye out on what type of capacity Edwards practices in. Limited practices might indicate he is not ready to go quit yet and it might allow Elliot to get more reps. It might be time to “feed Zeke” in Charger nation.
