5 free-agent running backs the Panthers should target in 2021
By Dean Jones
Kalen Ballage
- 2020 team – Los Angeles Chargers
Kalen Ballage came from nowhere in 2020 to make an eye-catching contribution for the Los Angeles Chargers. Austin Ekeler suffered some problematic injuries during the campaign that played a leading role in the team’s inability to make the postseason once again. But the veteran made the most out of the carries that came his way after being brought onto the roster late in proceedings.
The former fourth-round pick gained 290 rushing yards and three touchdowns, together with 99 receiving yards after bringing in 20 of 27 targets thrown his way. Ballage has the physical size to gain the hard yards and is a force to be reckoned with in open space, which the Carolina Panthers would need if they eventually lost the services of Mike Davis in free agency.
This is a move that won’t cost much in the way of financial resources.
Ballage has proven he can step into any scheme and make a contribution right from the outset. Carolina could definitely make use of a player like this and especially if Christian McCaffrey is forced to miss more time in 2021.
Ballage might not be the most hotly coveted free-agent running back on the market. But the Panthers have a ton of needs elsewhere and this would represent a bargain that could slot into the No. 2 primary backup role if Rodney Smith doesn’t do enough during training camp and OTAs.