Chargers News: NFL Columnist Believes LA's RB2 Will Have a Huge 2023 Campaign
With new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore in the mix, expect the Chargers' offense to look a little different than it did last season. Moore values versatility and flexibility in his offensive schemes, and the Chargers should benefit from this. At times last season, LA’s offense looked stagnant and like they couldn’t move the ball down the field, so the hope is that these new schemes will help negate that completely.
With Moore, the group that should see the biggest difference will likely be the running backs, as Moore likes to be creative in his use of the backs, unlike former offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi. The team will use more of a two-back system than ever before to help take the load off starter Austin Ekeler, which means an increased role for backup Joshua Kelley.
One columnist seems to believe that Kelley is in line for a major breakout this season, with Moore leading the charge. Nate Gosney of Last Word on Sports sees a major breakout year for Kelly.
“With a creative offensive mind, and a player who has worked hard to get himself in the best shape of his life, opportunities and plays will arrive. Kelley showed plenty of flashes during his 2022 campaign, using his physicality and stature to run over opposing defenders.”
Last season, Kelly ran for 287 yards on 69 carries with two touchdowns. But he will be given a much larger workload this year with Moore calling the shots. Moore likes to use 12 personnel, and that added blocker should allow for a more zone-based scheme which results in giving his backs more vision to create space and get yards. Kelly already is a good runner between the tackles, so this could really help unlock something for him.
The former UCLA product is in line to take on a larger share in the offense this season. The team will want to allow Ekeler to take time off in games to make sure he is fresh for the playoffs, and this is where Kelly will shine. Moore has a way of helping his backs turn into really solid players, and Kelly will benefit.
If Kelly can up his production even a bit, it'll be a win for the Chargers. This offensive unit has the capability to be one of the best in the National Football League, and Kelly will be a big piece of the puzzle.
