The first free agent acquisition of the Jim Harbaugh era for the Los Angeles Charger is former Baltimore Raven running back, Gus Edwards. Edwards played for John Harbaugh for the first five years of his career, so it's no surprise that he is set to join the Chargers. Edwards likely comes with glowing recommendations having logged the fourth most rushing yards in Ravens history behind only Jamal Lewis, Ray Rice, and Lamar Jackson.
Tom Pelissero of NFL Network broke the news on Monday afternoon. The deal can become official as soon as Wednesday afternoon when NFL free agency officially opens.
The Harbaugh connection isn't the only one that likely sparked this signing either. Greg Roman was the offensive coordinator (among other roles) for the Ravens for the first five years of Edwards' career. Roman is now an assistant coach with the Chargers.
It's notable that Edwards' most efficient seasons all came when Roman was calling the plays for the Ravens. Now that the Chargers are clearly moving on from Austin Ekeler, Edwards could likely be leaned upon significantly in 2024. He may not average five yards per carry like he did in his early career, but Edwards has a nose for the end zone. Edwards is coming off a career best 13 rushing touchdowns last season.
This of course does not mean that the Chargers will pass up running backs in the NFL Draft. However, this does situate them in a way where they don't have to take a running back. We'll have more on their backfield and other Los Angeles Chargers free agency news in the coming days and weeks.
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