Justin Jackson 2021 Outlook
The issue for fantasy managers looking to invest in a Chargers running back not named Austin Ekeler is obvious: There is no clear No. 2. It was expected that Joshua Kelley or Jackson would assume that role last season, but that didn't happen because both running backs struggled. Kelley was terrific in his first two games of the season, then was derailed after fumbling in consecutive weeks. He got his touches cut while Jackson was hampered by the injury bug. This is a new coaching staff, so Kelley will get another chance to prove himself. Jackson had a better ending of 2020, but does he fit new offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi's system? According to SI.com, that will be the real question. Worth noting, the Bolts weren't very good in short-yardage running situations, which is why the since-departed Kalen Ballage saw significant time last year. If Jackson (or Kelley) could demonstrate some power, it could change their trajectory in this offense. But until or unless that happens, both players remain outside the range of draftable commodities in all but the deepest leagues or as late-round fliers in best-ball formats. And even that seems like a reach.
