Chargers RB Austin Ekeler praises Joshua Kelley, talks Justin Jackson’s injury

Chargers running back Austin Ekeler talked to the media on Thursday, which marked the last player press conference of the preseason.

Ekeler is the lead man in a backfield that will be sure to get a lot of work this upcoming season, now that they’re transitioning to a run-heavy system.

Ekeler will have a significant role, both as a ball carrier and pass-catcher, which is why there was a competition for the second back who would compliment the third-year player.

The competition was between Justin Jackson and rookie Joshua Kelley.

Jackson, who is entering his third season, is looking to have a bounce back year after dealing with a hamstring injury. But it appears there’s another injury that’s holding him back. Ekeler said that he is dealing with a toe injury, adding that he is “pissed off.”

Jackson missed a few practices during the past couple of weeks. While he was out, Kelley – the team’s fourth-round pick – got a handful of reps as RB2, where he impressed.

Ekeler said he sees Kelley is very talented and that he keeps getting better. He added that he will add a new dynamic to the backfield.

It was expected that it would be a committee in the backfield to start the season, but if Jackson can’t go, there could be a 1-2 punch between Ekeler and Kelley.

Regardless if Jackson is ready to go or not, I expect Kelley to warrant more touches. His showing at camp has suggested a good amount of playing time, and he was praised early and often.

It will be exciting to see Los Angeles’ new offense after some major changes. Ekeler said there’s a “new energy” to the Chargers offense this season.