4 moves Los Angeles Chargers need to make to keep up with AFC West

2022 NFL Free Agency; New England Patriots cornerback J.C. Jackson (27) returns an interception for a touchdown as Carolina Panthers wide receiver Robby Anderson (11) defends in the third quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
2022 NFL Free Agency; New England Patriots cornerback J.C. Jackson (27) returns an interception for a touchdown as Carolina Panthers wide receiver Robby Anderson (11) defends in the third quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
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Los Angeles Chargers
Jan 9, 2022; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (6) runs the ball against the Seattle Seahawks in the first half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Schumacher-Arizona RepublicNfl Seattle Seahawks At Arizona Cardinals

Los Angeles Chargers move No. 2: Get a RB that complements Austin Ekeler

The L.A. Chargers have a very talented running back in Austin Ekeler and he was a huge part of their success in 2021. Ekeler finished the season with 1,558 yards from scrimmage which included 911 rushing yards and 647 receiving. He also had 20 total touchdowns — 12 rushing and eight receiving.

It was by far the best season of his career and there’s no reason to think he won’t continue to have a lot of success in this offense. However, he’s still on the smaller side at 200-pounds, meaning the Chargers could use a back with a little more mass to pick up some of the tougher yards.

Their No. 2 back in 2021 was Justin Jackson who is also right around 200-pounds and he finished with 364 yards and two touchdowns. He now enters free agency and L.A. might prefer to look for someone else who complements Ekeler better.

Free agency is an option with players such as Darrel Williams and James Conner standing out. Both are bigger backs who could churn the tough yards and help save Ekeler.

There’s also the draft and while this class isn’t elite in terms of running backs, they could find someone who they feel can help Ekeler share the load.