The Los Angeles Chargers should be in the market for a running back but it might not be one that many would expect

The Los Angeles Chargers may not look like they have a pressing need at running back following Kimani Vidal’s breakout performance on Thursday Night Football against the Minnesota Vikings, but depth concerns remain very real. With Omarion Hampton’s recovery timeline from a high-ankle sprain still uncertain, the Chargers simply can’t afford to stand pat.

A new ball carrier

Reports have already indicated that Los Angeles is actively exploring options to bolster its backfield. The short turnaround before Thursday’s game made a trade unlikely, but now—with extra time before Week 9—general manager Joe Hortiz has a valuable opportunity to assess the market.

Cleveland Browns running back Jerome Ford is one player who should be on the Chargers’ radar. During the Browns’ loss to the New England Patriots, Ford didn’t record a single carry, despite rookie Quinshon Judkins leaving the game with a shoulder injury. That’s a telling sign that Ford has fallen out of favor in Cleveland’s backfield rotation.

Judkins’ injury isn’t expected to be serious, and the Browns head into their bye week, giving them time to reassess. Still, Ford’s declining role suggests the Browns are shifting focus to their younger backs. After logging over 35 snaps per game early in the season, Ford has seen just 13 in each of the last two contests. Rookie Dylan Sampson, meanwhile, saw his workload increase significantly.

This change in workload creates a potential opportunity for the Chargers to strike. Ford—who averaged 5.4 yards per carry last season—would fit nicely alongside Vidal, providing a steady, dual-threat complement while Hampton recovers. His addition would also allow Los Angeles to manage Hampton’s workload once he returns and offer a reliable change-of-pace option in the meantime.

Financially and strategically, this move makes sense. Ford’s trade value is modest—likely costing the Chargers a late-round pick swap. While he wouldn’t overhaul the offense, he would immediately upgrade the running back rotation and add a layer of stability to a unit that needs it.

In a season where the Chargers can’t afford to lose momentum, Ford represents the kind of low-risk, high-value acquisition that could pay dividends down the stretch.