Chargers Backup RB: Who Will Be Austin Ekeler's Backup?

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The Los Angeles Chargers have one of the most dynamic offenses in the NFL, and a key component of their success is their running game. While Austin Ekeler is the clear-cut starter and a fantasy football star, the question of who will be the Chargers' backup running back is a crucial one for both the team and fans alike. Understanding the depth chart behind Ekeler is vital for assessing the Chargers' offensive capabilities and potential vulnerabilities throughout the season. So, let's dive into the contenders vying for the RB2 role and what they bring to the table. — 8movierulz 2025: Watch Latest Movies Online

The Candidates for Chargers Backup RB

Several players are in the mix to secure the coveted role of backup running back for the Chargers. Each brings a unique skill set and level of experience, making the competition intriguing. Here's a breakdown of the main contenders:

Isaiah Spiller

Isaiah Spiller was drafted by the Chargers in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft with high expectations. Coming out of Texas A&M, Spiller was known for his powerful running style and ability to break tackles. However, his rookie season was underwhelming due to injuries and difficulty adjusting to the NFL speed. This year, Spiller has a chance to prove why the Chargers drafted him. He's been working on his pass-catching abilities and improving his agility, which could make him a more well-rounded back. If Spiller can stay healthy and show progress in training camp, he could very well secure the RB2 spot. The Chargers need a reliable power back, and Spiller fits that mold perfectly. Guys, keep an eye on his progress during the preseason games; his performance there will be very telling.

Joshua Kelley

Joshua Kelley has been with the Chargers for a few seasons now, providing glimpses of potential but struggling with consistency. Kelley is a hard runner with good burst, but he needs to improve his decision-making and pass protection skills to become a more reliable option. He has shown flashes of brilliance, but injuries and fumbles have hampered his progress. This training camp is crucial for Kelley to demonstrate his value to the team. He needs to showcase improved consistency and reliability in all aspects of the game. If Kelley can minimize mistakes and prove he can be a dependable backup, he stands a good chance of retaining a role in the offense. The competition is fierce, though, and Kelley needs to elevate his game to secure his spot.

Larry Rountree III

Larry Rountree III is another contender who has been with the Chargers for a couple of years. He's a physical runner who excels in short-yardage situations. Rountree has a nose for the end zone and could be valuable in goal-line packages. However, he lacks the versatility of Spiller and Kelley, which could limit his opportunities. To stand out, Rountree needs to show that he can be a reliable special teams player and contribute on passing downs. His path to the RB2 role is more challenging, but his power running style could carve out a niche for him on the roster. Keep an eye on how he performs in the preseason; a strong showing could make the coaching staff take notice.

Elijah Dotson

Elijah Dotson is an intriguing undrafted free agent who has been turning heads in training camp. Dotson possesses impressive speed and agility, making him a threat as a receiver out of the backfield. While he lacks the experience of the other contenders, his natural talent and potential upside make him a dark horse in the competition. Dotson needs to continue to impress the coaches with his pass-catching abilities and demonstrate that he can handle the physicality of the NFL. If he can prove to be a valuable asset on special teams as well, he could sneak onto the roster and potentially challenge for the RB2 role. Don't underestimate the potential of this underdog; he could be a surprise contributor this season.

What the Coaches Are Looking For

The Chargers' coaching staff, led by head coach Brandon Staley and offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, will be closely evaluating the running backs based on several key criteria. These include: — Ann Jillian's Husband Today: A Look At Her Life

  • Pass Protection: In today's NFL, running backs must be able to effectively block blitzing linebackers and defensive ends to protect the quarterback. This is a non-negotiable skill for any running back hoping to see significant playing time.
  • Receiving Ability: The Chargers' offense utilizes running backs in the passing game, so the ability to catch passes out of the backfield is essential. Coaches will be looking for backs who can run routes, catch the ball cleanly, and make plays after the catch.
  • Consistency: Fumbles and missed assignments can quickly land a running back in the doghouse. Coaches value consistency and reliability above all else. They need to know that the backup running back can be trusted to execute the game plan without making costly mistakes.
  • Special Teams: The ability to contribute on special teams can be a deciding factor for players on the bubble. Running backs who can excel as gunners, blockers, or returners have a greater chance of making the roster.

Prediction Time: Who Will Be the Chargers Backup RB?

Alright, guys, time for my prediction! Given the current landscape, I believe Isaiah Spiller has the inside track to win the RB2 job. He has the size, power, and potential to be a valuable asset in the Chargers' offense. If he can stay healthy and show improvement in his pass-catching and pass-blocking abilities, he should be the primary backup to Austin Ekeler.

However, Joshua Kelley will likely remain on the roster as a dependable veteran presence. His experience and familiarity with the offense give him an edge. Elijah Dotson could also make the team as a special teams contributor and a change-of-pace back. Larry Rountree III faces an uphill battle, but his power running style could earn him a spot on the practice squad.

Ultimately, the competition for the Chargers' backup running back role will be fierce, and the final decision will come down to who performs best in training camp and the preseason games. Keep a close eye on these players as they battle it out for a spot on the roster. The Chargers' running game could be a major factor in their success this season, and the performance of the backup running back will be crucial. — Greg Laurie Net Worth: An In-Depth Look