Analysis

Edwards actually outpaced backfield mate J.K. Dobbins by one carry but was markedly less efficient than his teammate. Nevertheless, the Chargers' ability to control both of their first two games and head coach Jim Harbaugh's penchant for the ground attack have combined to afford both backs a solid amount of opportunity to open the season. Dobbins is undoubtedly the more dynamic of the two, however, so Edwards may fall into more of a true complementary role if the game script is different in a Week 3 visit to the Steelers.

Analysis

Edwards led the team in carries Sunday, but it was J.K. Dobbins who stole the show by logging carries of 46 and 61 yards en route to a 135-yard day on just 10 touches. The transplanted Baltimore duo figures to split the work evenly in the majority of games, but it'll be interesting to see if Edwards continues to have the leg up on goal-line opportunities. Dobbins scored the lone rushing touchdown Sunday, but it came on a 12-yard run clearly designed to attack the outside of the defense. Perhaps more crucially for fantasy managers, the explosive back also was the designated receiving back, recording three receptions to Edwards' one.

Analysis

Edwards and Dobbins are both familiar with the rushing scheme of Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman, as both running backs previously played under Roman in Baltimore. Dobbins is faster and has better hands, but Edwards should get a steady diet of inside runs and valuable goal-line work after racking up 13 rushing touchdowns with the Ravens in 2023. Kimani Vidal and Hassan Haskins are listed as the backups at running back.

Analysis

Other veterans not in uniform include QB Justin Herbert (foot), TE Hayden Hurst, S Derwin James and OLB Joey Bosa. The Chargers may or may not play some starters but seem to be resting their most experienced players. Jaret Patterson, Kimani Vidal, Isaiah Spiller and Elijah Dotson are the backfield options Saturday night.

Analysis

Also not on track to see action Saturday, per Popper, is J.K. Dobbins, who is listed along with Edwards as a co-starter on the Chargers' unofficial depth chart. With the top duo not slated to log snaps, Kimani Vidal, Isaiah Spiller, Jaret Patterson and Elijah Dotson are available to handle backfield work versus Seattle.

Analysis

Dobbins previously got most of the first-team reps while Edwards was eased into camp after undergoing an undisclosed procedure this offseason. Both backs picked up five snaps with the starting offense in full-team drills Tuesday, potentially setting the stage for a timeshare come Week 1. Rookie sixth-round pick Kimani Vidal still has time to make an impression but has been working with the backups so far.

Analysis

Harbaugh added that Edwards underwent an unspecified offseason procedure, and as a result, the Chargers plan to give the running back a "longer runway" in terms of being a full participant in practice. As the coming season approaches, Daniel Popper of The Athletic has suggested that Edwards, when available, profiles as the team's lead back, with J.K. Dobbins, Kimani Vidal and Isaiah Spiller in the mix for complementary touches. Given that Edwards hasn't been involved as a pass catcher during his career, he'll make most of his fantasy impact in early-down and goal-line situations, a context that could lead to PPR utility for whomever emerges as the team's top change-of-pace option.

Analysis

Edwards was seen going through drills in full pads Wednesday after having been limited to working out on the side during June minicamp. The veteran bruiser appears to be over whatever injury was pestering him during spring. He'll reunite in Los Angeles with offensive coordinator Greg Roman in what is expected to be a run-heavy offensive scheme under new Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh. Edwards appears to be the favorite to serve as the Chargers' starting running back Week 1, and he should be in line to handle the majority of goal-line work. Former Ravens teammate J.K. Dobbins (Achilles), Kimani Vidal and Isaiah Spiller could all be in the mix for change-of-pace work, as Edwards has never been much of a factor on third downs or obvious passing situations.

Analysis

Edwards' injury details remain undisclosed, and while it doesn't currently appear that the Chargers are seriously worried about his status, fantasy managers would certainly prefer for the 29-year-old not to be nicked up at this stage of the offseason. Harbaugh also revealed that Edwards wasn't present for voluntary OTAs. Following the departure of Austin Ekeler, Edwards appears to have a clear path to the No. 1 backfield gig to begin the 2024 season, health permitting. J.K. Dobbins, rookie sixth-rounder Kimani Vidal, and 2022 fourth-rounder Isaiah Spiller are all also options to compete for work. If Edwards ends up missing significant time this offseason, leaving first-team reps up for grabs, that could pave the way to a true backfield committee forming.