Former Baltimore Ravens running back Gus Edwards plans to sign with the Los Angeles Chargers, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero. The fifth-year player is signing with the Chargers on a two-year deal, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported.
Edwards, who went undrafted out of Rutgers in 2018, had 810 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns for the Ravens last season. He's recorded 3,395 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns across his career, with the 2023 season being his best year statistically.
Landing Edwards now gives the Chargers at least one solid option in the backfield with Austin Ekeler and Joshua Kelley set to hit free agency.
The move to Los Angeles reunites Edwards with former Ravens and current Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman as well as former Ravens director of player personnel Joe Hortiz, who is the new general manager in Los Angeles.
Edwards, 28, led the Ravens' running back group in rushing yards last season and will be looking for a big year with the Chargers, who Roman said want to have a "great running game" in 2024. Los Angeles finished 24th in rushing yards per game and 26th in yards per carry last season.
There is a good chance Ekeler, who had 628 rushing yards last season, won't return to Los Angeles in 2024 after the Chargers decided not to franchise tag him. The veteran is reportedly being eyed by the New York Giants, and with Saquon Barkley on his way out, it could mean the Giants move quickly on Ekeler.
Kelley, the Chargers No. 2 option behind Ekeler, had 405 rushing yards last year. If both Ekeler and Kelley depart in free agency, it could make sense for the Chargers to take a running back in the draft to help improve their run game next season.
Either way, Los Angeles now has a good option with lots of potential in Edwards heading into the year.
