Chargers agree to a 2-year deal with RB Gus Edwards, AP source says

Jim Harbaugh said upgrading the running game would be a major focus when he was hired as the Los Angeles Chargers' coach. The Bolts took a step in that direction Monday by agreeing to terms with running back Gus Edwards.

Edwards, who had spent all six years of his career with Baltimore, will sign a two-year deal, according to a person who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because free agents can’t officially sign with new teams until Wednesday.

Offensive coordinator Greg Roman and general manager Joe Hortiz are familiar with Edwards from their time with the Ravens.

“Running backs are important for an offense, and I truly believe that. I’ve been in Baltimore for 26 years and running backs were extremely important. Certainly, in Jim’s offense and Greg’s offense, it will be," Hortiz said during the NFL scouting combine.

Edwards signed with Ravens as an undrafted free agent in 2018 and rushed for 3,395 yards over five seasons. He did not play in 2021 because of a knee injury.

Edwards split time with both Mark Ingram and J.K. Dobbins before becoming Baltimore's lead back last season after Dobbins suffered an Achilles tendon injury in the opener. Edwards set career highs with 810 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns as Baltimore had the best record in the AFC before losing to Kansas City in the conference title game.

The Chargers have been one of the league's worst rushing teams over the past four seasons. Their 3.9 yards per carry was third worst during that span.

Last season, they were 25th with 1,642 rushing yards and 96.6 yards per game with Austin Ekeler and Joshua Kelley as the main backs. Both are unrestricted free agents.

Before the start of the new league year, the Chargers must get under the $255.4 million salary cap. They remain $21.1 million over with key decisions looming on wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, as well as linebackers Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack. All four players have cap numbers over $30 million. They could be traded, released or agree to restructured contracts.

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