The Los Angeles Chargers are potentially looking to bolster their running back position this offseason, particularly with J.K. Dobbins set to enter free agency and Gus Edwards underwhelming in the previous season. With significant cap space available, the Chargers could explore free agent options or trades to find a suitable replacement. Analyst Alex Ballentine has proposed that Travis Etienne Jr. of the Jacksonville Jaguars could be an ideal target. Though Etienne had a challenging year, he has shown flashes of promise, including two 1,000-yard seasons and the ability to contribute in the passing game, making him a compelling option for LA.

While Dobbins possesses talent when healthy, his injury history raises concerns for the Chargers. They may benefit from acquiring a younger, more reliable player like Etienne, who was a first-round draft pick and has room for growth. This potential move could reconfigure the Chargers’ backfield dynamics and provide Justin Herbert with a versatile weapon as they aim to enhance their offensive capabilities.

The Los Angeles Chargers are in a decisive win-now mode as they enter the second year under coach Jim Harbaugh. With an emphasis on enhancing their offense around Justin Herbert, the Chargers are exploring trade opportunities to bolster their roster. One potential target is Travis Etienne, the running back from the Jacksonville Jaguars, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract. The Jaguars recently underwent a chaotic management change, making them vulnerable to trade scenarios. Despite not fully meeting expectations since being drafted 25th overall, Etienne's youth and affordable cap hit could make him an attractive option for the Chargers, particularly if they can acquire him at a reasonable draft cost.

Moreover, the Chargers' current running back situation is uncertain, with J.K. Dobbins facing free agency and Gus Edwards nearing the end of his contract. While they have Kimani Vidal as a backup, the prospect of adding Etienne as a rotational back could be beneficial. His performance metrics, boasting an average of 4.2 yards per carry, suggest he could integrate well within the Chargers' offensive scheme, complementing Herbert's playing style.

The Los Angeles Chargers face a pivotal offseason as they ponder their running back situation, particularly with J.K. Dobbins heading into free agency and Gus Edwards underperforming. While the Chargers possess ample cap space, they may hesitate to allocate substantial funds towards a halfback, pushing them to explore trade options or the NFL Draft for solutions.

In this context, there's speculation that the Chargers might target TreVeyon Henderson, a standout running back from Ohio State, who impressed during his college career. Jim Harbaugh, who has experience coaching against Henderson, recognizes the player's explosive capabilities and proficiency in pass protection, making him a compelling candidate for L.A. Henderson's impressive statistics from the most recent season — over 1,000 rushing yards and multiple touchdowns — further bolster his appeal as a potential addition to the Chargers' backfield.

Several veteran running backs face uncertain futures as the NFL moves closer to the 2025 season. The nature of the running back position often leads to early retirements, and this year, five notable players should weigh their options seriously.

Raheem Mostert of the Miami Dolphins experienced a drastic decline in performance, marked by injuries and low rushing averages. At 33, with a contract out option, Miami might consider moving on, especially with the emergence of De'Von Achane.

Ezekiel Elliott, recently signed by the Los Angeles Chargers, has seen his career plummet after being replaced by younger talent in Dallas. At 29, his poor performance last season raises questions about whether he should continue playing.

Jamaal Williams has struggled since joining the New Orleans Saints, averaging under 4.0 yards per carry. As he plays behind Alvin Kamara, his future remains unclear.

Nick Chubb’s return from injury has been disappointing. Averaging a career-low 3.3 yards per carry, coupled with an expiring contract, makes his future with the Cleveland Browns uncertain.

Finally, Gus Edwards, now with the Chargers, has also seen a decline in performance. Having lost his starting role and struggling with low rushing averages, it may be time for Edwards to consider retirement as he approaches age 30.

J.K. Dobbins, running back for the Los Angeles Chargers, is a critical uncertainty ahead of the NFL playoff matchup against the Houston Texans due to an ankle injury sustained in the season finale. Previously, he had just returned from another injury, and his status has been officially listed as questionable.

Dobbins has been instrumental in the Chargers' rushing offense, amassing 905 yards and nine touchdowns over 13 games this season. In his absence, Gus Edwards, who recently returned from injury, may need to carry the load, although his performance has been less impactful this season.