The Los Angeles Chargers season was both a success and a failure. The new Jim Harbaugh regime turned the 5-12 Chargers into an 11-6 playoff team, but then they fell apart in those very playoffs. Post-season success is what the franchise is looking for and facing a tremendous turnover of roster talent, they will have to pull off another incredible offseason to build on the success of 2024.
Perhaps the biggest anomaly was the performance of the running game. While the running game got off to a hot start with JK Dobbins at the helm, it sputtered to a halt and then Dobbins got injured, again.
Dobbins is among the Chargers free agents this offseason leaving the team with Gus Edwards and 2024 rookie Kimani Vidal. Given what is known about the Harbaugh-Greg Roman offense, they will need to add not only more firepower but a true threat at the position.
Targeting the Next Los Angeles Chargers Lead-Back
Chargers Draft Target: Ashton Jeanty, Boise State
Do you think Harbaugh might be interested in a back built like Frank Gore but with explosive big-play potential? Do you think he would buck current football wisdom and draft a first-round running back, maybe trade up for one?
If so, you understand Jim Harbaugh.
Ashton Jeanty possesses exceptional talent, arguably ranking among the most gifted players in the 2025 NFL Draft class when disregarding positional value. This highly productive running back consistently maximizes his touches, demonstrating an elite ability to generate yards after contact and a knack for explosive, game-breaking runs.
Standing 5’9″, and weighing 215 pounds, Jenty’s impressive skillset extends beyond his rushing prowess. He exhibits exceptional vision and balance, enabling him to navigate tight spaces and maximize his yardage. Furthermore, his proficiency as a receiver in the passing game makes him a valuable asset in diverse offensive schemes, whether it’s an outside zone or a gap-based system.
Chargers Free Agency Option: Aaron Jones
Aaron Jones has positioned himself as a highly coveted free agent for the 2025 season. After inking a one-year deal this offseason, Jones has consistently demonstrated his value as a multifaceted offensive weapon.
His impact extends beyond rushing yards, as evidenced by his exceptional pass-blocking skills. With a 74.0 PFF pass-blocking grade, he ranks among the league’s elite at his position. This, coupled with his consistent production as both a runner and receiver, makes him a highly sought-after commodity in the upcoming free agency period.
Subscribe to LAFB Network’s Los Angeles Chargers YouTube Channel
Under The Radar Free Agent: Najee Harris
Najee Harris has established himself as a model of consistency throughout his NFL career. While perhaps not the most explosive or elusive runner, his consistent production provides significant value. Since entering the league in 2021, Harris ranks second only to Derrick Henry in rushing attempts (1,072), fifth in rushing yards (4,206), and third in yards after contact (3,127).
Harris’s market value, however, may be influenced by several factors. The exceptional performances of prominent running backs who signed contracts last offseason, including Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs, and Derrick Henry, have undoubtedly raised the bar for expectations at the position.
Furthermore, the emergence of a remarkably strong and deep running back class in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft presents a significant challenge. The availability of a plethora of talented young prospects at the position may influence the Los Angeles Chargers’ decisions regarding long-term investments in veteran running backs like Harris.