Chargers RB Battle Heats Up
Amar Johnson's Two-Touchdown Preseason Game Heats Up Chargers' Running Back Competition
Amar Johnson stole the show in the Los Angeles Chargers' preseason opener, a 27-7 win over the Houston Texans. The running back scored two touchdowns and turned a short pass into a stunning 55-yard gain, according to Miami Herald.
The performance matters because the Chargers have not had a 1,000-yard rusher since Melvin Gordon in 2017. Johnson's big night raises real questions about who will carry the ball — and how much — when the regular season begins.
Johnson Outshines Rivals in Running Back Battle
The Chargers have no clear lead running back heading into 2025. Johnson used the preseason opener to make a strong case for a bigger role. His 55-yard reception after the catch showed speed and vision that few expected from him at this stage, Charlotte Observer reported.
Jaret Patterson and Greg Desrosiers Jr. also played well in the win over Houston. All three backs are fighting for roster spots and carries. The competition is wide open, and Johnson's two touchdowns put him near the top of the pecking order heading into the next preseason game.
Backup QB Race Brings Back Familiar Names
The battle for the backup quarterback job is heating up again. Trey Lance and DJ Uiagalelei are competing for the spot — the same two players who faced off in last summer's camp, according to The News Tribune.
Neither player locked up the job a year ago. Now they get another shot to prove themselves in live game action. The Chargers need a reliable backup behind their starter, and preseason games like this one will decide who gets that trust.
Offensive Line Still Has a Glaring Hole at Left Guard
The Chargers lost left tackle Rashawn Slater to a season-ending knee injury last year. That forced the team to adjust up front. The line is still working through small tweaks to find the right mix, Tri-City Herald reported.
The biggest question mark is at left guard. Five players are competing for that one starting spot. Sorting out that position will be a key storyline for the rest of the preseason. A settled offensive line is critical for protecting the quarterback and opening holes for the running game.
What the Win Over Houston Tells Us About This Team
A 27-7 preseason blowout does not tell coaches everything. But it does reveal who is playing hard and who stands out when the lights come on. Johnson's big night was the clearest signal from the game, according to Kentucky.com.
The Chargers have real depth questions at running back, backup quarterback, and left guard. The next few preseason weeks will narrow the roster down fast. Johnson gave the coaching staff something to think about — and gave fans a reason to pay attention to the position battle.
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