Grading The Chargers’ Signing Of Gus Edwards
The Los Angeles Chargers finally made their first significant move in NFL free agency, signing running back Gus Edwards to a two-year deal. Edwards comes to the Chargers after spending his entire career with the Baltimore Ravens previously since he went undrafted in 2018.
Grade: B
The Chargers earned a "B" grade for their signing of Edwards, meaning it is a good move, but not necessarily a "wow" signing that would earn an "A".
The good news is the Chargers bring in a back that will fill a need for the team now that Austin Ekeler is a free agent. The free agency running back market is huge this season, with players like Tony Pollard, Saquon Barkley, and Josh Jacobs agreeing to sign on Monday. Though the Chargers missed out on a huge star like Barkley, they were able to nab a respectable back in Edwards.
Though Edwards will turn 29 years old before the beginning of the 2024 season, which is typically considered "old" for the position, he has not had a ton of wear and tear since he has been part of a committee backfield for much of his career.
Even so, Edwards has been a meaningful contributor for the Ravens. Edwards has rushed for at least 700 yards in each of the seasons that he has played at least ten games. He has an impressive career average of 4.9 yards per carry and has averaged at least 5.0 yards per carry over four different seasons.
This signing also makes sense Edwards also has ties to the new Chargers regime, having played under head coach Jim Harbaugh's brother, John Harbaugh. He was also signed by new general manager Joe Hortiz, who was part of the Ravens' regime that drafted Edwards.
During his time with the Ravens, he was under the Chargers' new offensive coordinator Greg Roman for several years. Given that Roman is known for his run game, a system that Edwards did well in, he should be able to help Roman execute his vision in Los Angeles.
Overall, the Chargers have brought in a solid contributor for their new offense. So long as the Chargers did not spend a ton of money to bring Edwards in, this signing gives them a strong role player with room to add to their committee in the draft or free agency.
