The Chargers’ offense is going to shift from pass-heavy to run-heavy this upcoming season.
Led by Austin Ekeler, the backfield features a rotation of young and healthy runners. The rest of the pack is made up of third-year Justin Jackson and rookie Joshua Kelley.
With the running game becoming the focal point this upcoming season, the backfield needs to be at its best. So far in training camp, each member has stood out.
Ekeler, who will be the feature back after Melvin Gordon’s departure, has done what he does best by beating defenders on the ground, as well as through the air, whether he’s been lined up out of the backfield or out wide.
The battle for RB2 is one of the more compelling positional competitions, which is between Jackson and Kelley. Both players have shined, making the battle even more stiff.
Jackson, the former Northwestern product, continues to churn out yards on the ground. After dealing with an injury in 2019, Jackson looks to stay healthy and produce like he has done in a limited capacity.
Jackson has averaged 5.1 yards on 79 carries and has caught 24 of 30 targets to this point in his career. He was praised by his teammate, Ekeler, calling him “so unique,” and even said he’s making an effort to emulate certain parts aspects of Jackson’s running style.
While Jackson may have the slight edge to win the job due to his experience in the league, Kelley is making things intriguing.
rook comin' through 🏎@SmoothplayJK | #BoltUp pic.twitter.com/VpID9O4fMa
— Los Angeles Chargers (@Chargers) August 19, 2020
Kelley, the team’s fourth-round pick, is trying to show that he can carve up a significant role in his rookie season. He has been making the most of his reps with the first-team. The former UCLA product has been running with a physical mentality, while also showing off his speed.
Lynn spoke on Kelley on Friday, stating that he’s been having a good camp, and is a quick learner.
