Gus Edwards Joins Los Angeles Chargers as New Lead Running Back

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ICARO Media Group
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11/03/2024 23h27

In an exciting move for the Los Angeles Chargers, former Ravens running back Gus Edwards has agreed to terms on a two-year deal with the team. The signing was reported on Monday, although details of the contract were not initially disclosed.

This signing reunites Edwards with his former offensive coordinator Greg Roman, who recently joined the Chargers this offseason under first-year head coach Jim Harbaugh. Interestingly, this also means that Edwards will now be playing for the brother of his former head coach with the Ravens, John Harbaugh.

Having spent his entire five-season NFL career with the Ravens, the 29-year-old running back showcased his skills in 2023, leading his team's running backs with 810 rushing yards and an impressive 13 touchdowns, averaging 4.1 yards per carry. Additionally, Edwards contributed 12 catches for 180 yards during the season. It is worth noting, however, that his average of 4.1 yards per carry was a career low, having averaged at least five yards per carry in each of his previous four seasons in Baltimore.

Edwards made a strong comeback in 2023 after recovering from an ACL injury that forced him to miss the second half of the 2022 season. He took on the primary back role when J.K. Dobbins suffered an Achilles injury in Week 1. Prior to that, Edwards had been part of a running back committee in Baltimore, consistently surpassing 700 yards on an impressive five-plus yards per carry in each of his first three seasons.

While it remains unclear who will join Edwards in the Chargers' backfield, it has been reported that Austin Ekeler is set to sign a two-year, $11.43 million deal with the Washington Commanders. Furthermore, there is uncertainty surrounding the status of backup Joshua Kelley, who is a pending free agent as his rookie contract expires. Assuming both departures, Edwards will step in as the clear No. 1 running back in Los Angeles.

Meanwhile, the Ravens will be hopeful for J.K. Dobbins' return to full health, as they aim to retain him as their No. 1 back. In the absence of any acquisitions, second-year back Keaton Mitchell is projected to take on the role of the No. 2 back in Baltimore, having recorded 489 yards and two touchdowns as a rookie.

With the addition of Gus Edwards, Chargers fans can expect an experienced and talented running back to lead their ground game, while Ravens supporters will be eagerly anticipating the return of J.K. Dobbins and the opportunities that lie ahead for their young backfield.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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