The Chargers are into their third week of training camp without running back Melvin Gordon, who is holding out because of a contract dispute.
The absence of Gordon has led to the emergence of Austin Ekeler and Justin Jackson managing the full load in the backfield.
There’s a lot to be excited about the tandem, especially Jackson, the second-year back. Jackson has received rave received from many thus far, including some from defensive end Melvin Ingram.
Ingram had very high praise for Jackson following Sunday’s practice.
“He’s definitely an elite back. His vision, you can’t coach what he has. Man, his vision. His vision and the way he runs the ball is great. It’s amazing how he can see stuff in a split-second,” per the Orange County Register’s Gilbert Manzano.
That’s not the first time that we’ve heard something like that. Ekeler recently commented on his teammate, saying that he’s got some “razzle dazzle and hocus pocus.”
The former Northwestern product has made great strides from his rookie campaign, displaying a faster back who has gained a better sense of the offensive playbook.
The former seventh-round selection finished his rookie year with 50 rushing attempts for 206 yards and two touchdowns, as well as 15 receptions for 135 yards, good for a total yards average of 5.25 yards per touch.
If Gordon continues to holdout, Jackson might serve as the better option to get first- and second-down duties over Ekeler, as he showed that he could handle a bigger role while at Northwestern, posting four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons.
