For the first time in the Patrick Mahomes era, the Kansas City Chiefs have reason for concern when it comes to the Los Angeles Chargers. The franchise finished ahead of the Chiefs in the AFC West and made the playoffs, while the Chiefs sat at home. This is the momentum Kansas City is obviously trying to halt, as the Chargers look to support quarterback Justin Herbert. One area where this was desperately needed was building a more consistent run game.
The running back room is something the Chargers are working to fix, with NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reporting, "Former Ravens RB Keaton Mitchell is signing with the Chargers on a two-year, $9.25 million deal that includes $5M fully guaranteed, per source. Deal negotiated by Christian Kranz and Shane Costa of Generation Sports Group."
This isn't great news for Chiefs fans hoping that the Chargers' run game would continue to underwhelm. New offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel has a history of getting the most out of his backs, with De'Von Achane as the most obvious recent example.
Mitchell is a speedy and explosive back who would fit well in the current Los Angeles backfield. It is concerning that over the running back's career, he has averaged 6.3 yards per carry on 121 rush attempts. This isn't a small sample size; instead, it suggests a new threat has just joined Kansas City's division. One that the franchise is going to be forced to keep an eye on as they look to take back control of the AFC West.
Chiefs Fans Can't Avoid Obvious Concerns After Chargers Sign Overlooked Playmaker
Mitchell thrived last season as a second option behind Derrick Henry, letting the punishing back soften the defense and open up big-play opportunities. While Henry isn't in Los Angeles' backfield, the Chargers still have the proven coaching of McDaniel and the ability to scheme speed into ideal positions. `
For the Chargers, it is even more reason for confidence as it appears the fear the Chiefs once inspired has dissipated. It is on the shoulders of Mahomes and Kansas City's roster to once again establish itself as a premier contender, and this move makes that a bit harder. Mitchell's speed and the distraction it creates should work in the Chargers' favor, helping take pressure off Herbert.
It has been clear that the Chargers have asked too much of their quarterback, putting far too much on Herbert's shoulders. The ability to see this and work to remedy it by signing Mitchell and making similar moves is a clear concern for the Chiefs. While there isn't any reason for panic, there should be a healthy level of concern and an understanding of the attention that Mitchell must demand from the Chiefs' defense during the 2026 season.