Dexter McCluster to Chargers: Latest Contract Details, Comments and Reaction
Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Needing to boost their depth at running back, the San Diego Chargers will reportedly add Dexter McCluster to their roster heading into Week 3.
ESPN's Adam Schefter first reported the agreement Tuesday between McCluster and the Chargers. NFL Network's Mike Garafolo confirmed the move.
The move was necessitated after Danny Woodhead left San Diego's Week 2 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars, and the team placed him on injured reserve with a torn ACL.
McCluster is the perfect replacement for Woodhead since the two share similar skill sets on the field. They don't have one elite trait, but their versatility makes it so easy to get them involved in the offensive game plan.
ESPN's Ed Werder noted the built-in connection McCluster had with the Chargers that also may have played a role in this move:
In 11 games with the Tennessee Titans last season, McCluster ran for 247 yards on 55 carries and had 260 receiving yards on 31 receptions. He also returned 13 kickoffs and 24 punts.
After a brutal rookie season in 2015, Melvin Gordon is looking more like the running back he was expected to be all along through two games this season. He scored the first two touchdowns of his career in Week 1 against the Kansas City Chiefs and ran for 102 yards against the Jaguars last week.
McCluster can be used to give Gordon some rest at running back, and he can be split out wide or play in the slot to make plays in the passing game.
The Chargers offense has been terrific so far this season with 65 points. Losing Woodhead was a blow when it happened, but McCluster is the best possible signing for the team to keep playing at a high level as it looks to make a run in the AFC West.
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