The Chargers have informed running back Gus Edwards that he will be released before the start of NFL free agency, ESPN reported Friday, putting additional emphasis on potentially re-signing running back J.K. Dobbins in free agency.
Edwards signed a two-year deal with the Chargers last offseason and was due to command $4.25 million of the salary cap. He was the Chargers’ second-leading rusher with 365 yards and four touchdowns last season, but struggled with ankle injuries.
He and Dobbins — former teammates with the Baltimore Ravens — were expected to be a dynamic one-two punch for the Chargers, but injuries slowed down both running backs. Dobbins, who is set to be a free agent when the new league year begins Wednesday, still rushed for a career best 905 yards and nine touchdowns despite missing four games because of a knee injury.