The Los Angeles Chargers, who have strategically created cap space this off-season, are poised for a resurgence in 2024 following their 5-12 record in the 2023 campaign. With several offensive positions to fill, the team is exploring the possibility of signing a Pro Bowl running back.
In a recent article by FanBuzz’s Senior NFL Insider Matt Lombardo, which outlines a suggested free agent signing for each team, Lombardo recommends the Chargers pursue D’Andre Swift from the Philadelphia Eagles to bolster their running back roster. Swift, initially drafted 35th overall in 2020 by the Detroit Lions and traded to the Eagles last season, brings a dynamic skill set.
Lombardo notes that the arrival of Jim Harbaugh in Los Angeles signals a shift towards a ground-and-pound offense. Swift, with an average of 682 yards per season and 195 career catches, is seen as an ideal fit for the Chargers, especially given his versatility in evading defenders and contributing in the passing game—a valuable asset for Justin Herbert’s supporting cast.
As Swift enters free agency after not receiving the franchise tag from Philadelphia, he joins a pool of available running backs, including Derrick Henry, Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs, and others. Lombardo believes that Swift’s dynamic skill set aligns well with Harbaugh’s anticipated run-heavy offense for the upcoming season, potentially offering a solution to replace the impending free agent, veteran Austin Ekeler.
Having swiftly become the lead back in Philadelphia, Swift showcased his capabilities by rushing for 1,049 yards with a 4.6 average per carry and scoring 5 touchdowns on the ground. His receiving abilities were also evident, contributing 39 catches for 214 yards and a touchdown. Swift’s impressive performance earned him his first Pro Bowl selection, demonstrating his ability to produce at a high level in the NFL after initial struggles in his first three seasons.
As the March 11th deadline approaches, Swift will have the opportunity to engage in talks with various teams, and Lombardo believes that the Chargers, under Harbaugh’s scheme, could be an excellent fit for the talented running back.
