Who Should I Start? Keaton Mitchell or Jaleel McLaughlin

Thursday, March 12, 6:37 AM

The Los Angeles Chargers are signing free agent running back Keaton Mitchell to a two-year, $9.5 million deal that includes $5 million guaranteed, per Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. Mitchell spent the first three seasons of his career with the Baltimore Ravens, compiling 951 scrimmage yards and three touchdowns on 140 touches. Injuries limited the 24-year-old to just 26 games played over three years, and he's also been stuck behind workhorse back Derrick Henry in Baltimore. However, Mitchell has been a highly efficient rusher when given the opportunity, holding a career average of 6.3 yards per carry. In Los Angeles, Mitchell will likely be fighting with Kimani Vidal for the RB2 role behind 2025 first-round pick Omarion Hampton. Mitchell's speed and big-play ability will likely appeal to new Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel. While Hampton still projects as the team's clear lead rusher, Mitchell's arrival could create a slight logjam for backfield touches in Los Angeles.