Chargers News: Gus Edwards Reveals More About Greg Roman's Offensive Approach
New Los Angeles Chargers running back Gus Edwards has joined the team for their voluntary offseason program that began last week. This is Edwards' first offseason with the Bolts, after he signed with the Chargers on a two-year deal in free agency last month.
While Edwards is with a new team for the first time in his career after spending the previous six years with the Baltimore Ravens, he has some familiarity as he is reuniting with former offensive coordinator Greg Roman. Roman was the Ravens' offensive coordinator from 2019-2022, and was the Ravens' assistant head coach and tight ends coach during Edwards' first season with Baltimore.
Roman has been known for his run-first offenses, which should benefit Edwards. During every season under Roman, the Ravens had a top-three rushing offense in the NFL. In 2019 and 2020, the Ravens had the No. 1 offense in rushing yards per game.
While speaking to reporters on Monday, including Chargers Report's James Brizuela, Edwards revealed that Roman is looking for a "downhill runner," and that's what Edwards wants to be on this new team.
Edwards has often been a role-player back during his career, being utilized as part of a committee backfield. While Roman wanting a downhill runner doesn't mean the Chargers won't utilize a committee, it does signify an opportunity for Edwards to take on a large role in the Chargers' backfield.
Though Roman is now coaching an offense that has one of the best passing quarterbacks in the NFL in Justin Herbert, it's been clear that the running game will remain a focal point for the team's offense. Along with Edwards' comments today, Roman has previously spoken about bringing a diverse run game to the team and imagining Herbert with a great running game. All in all, the Chargers' new additions of Roman and Edwards should be expected to improve LA's run game in 2024.
