Los Angeles Chargers: Early top positions of need for 2021 NFL Draft
By Ian Higgins
Running back
2020 Starters: Austin Ekeler, Justin Jackson, Joshua Kelley
The depth of the Charger running back group has been tested this season, becoming an ever-growing trend throughout the NFL. The concept of a sole lead-back has been overcome by rotational methodologies ensuring elite backs are not overworked and put at higher risk of injury.
Austin Ekeler burst onto the scene during 2019 with his inheritance of the receiving-back role alongside quarterback Phillip Rivers and managed to earn the title of lead-back for 2020. Due to injuries though, other options such as Jackson and Kelly have come forward and offered functional options at the position in times of need.
8
Kylin Hill RB
Mississippi State running back Kyin Hill is a high-effort back who can function both inside the tackle and on the edge. Los Angeles will not be searching for a franchise solution at the position, but instead for a balanced alternative to the undersized Ekeler. Tough-runners with an aggressive attitude will nearly always make for a great complementary back.
The 2021 NFL Draft has a variety of available running backs, many of which will likely fly off the board in a day two flurry. The Los Angeles Chargers can take a more direct approach to the power-run with Georgia’s Zamir White or stick to their receiving mentality with Oregon’s C.J. Verdell, but Hill is a best-of-both-worlds who can employ a smooth transition into the running game supporting Ekeler.