Grade and Reactions to the Joshua Kelley pick

The Chargers just surprised the fan base some more by using their first pick on day three to secure another running back: Joshua Kelley out of UCLA. The Bolts already boast an underrated backfield situation with Austin Ekeler and Justin Jackson but Anthony Lynn mentioned the need for more size after the team let Melvin Gordon walk in free agency.

Kelley rushed for over 2,200 yards and 24 touchdowns during his two years with the Bruins and was named a Second-Team All-Pac-12 selection in 2019 on top of being invited to participate in this year’s Reese’s Senior Bowl.

I expected the Chargers to draft a running back at some point during the third day of the draft but I thought it would be a bigger back, at least bigger than 212 pounds. Kelley is a solid back with good speed who can play right away in a rotational role. He loves getting his hands dirty and doesn’t ever shy away from running through contact.

The Chargers still need left tackle help and there was a good one left in Auburn’s Prince Tega Wanogho. Overall, I don’t hate the pick.

Final Grade: C+

Chargers fans are already getting in Joshua Kelley’s mentions.

Joshua Kelley’s Instagram

And who doesn’t love a man of the people?

Chargers fans see Kelley as a more physical counterpart for Ekeler.

There is some concern about filling the RB2 slot when other holes remain, and Justin Jackson fans appear to be worried.