Did Chargers make most underrated free agency signing?

The Los Angeles Chargers have been blasted due to their free agency approach, which sees the franchise sitting on $50 million in cap space.

Fans want the Chargers to spend, most likely on upgrading the offensive line to protect Justin Herbert or to get him another top weapon.

But the franchise might have already done a great piece of business this offseason as it looks to improve under new coordinator Mike McDaniel.

And that's running back Keaton Mitchell.

For CBS Sports' Jared Dubin, it could be a great move.

"Mike McDaniel is better than almost anyone in the NFL at getting the ball to fast players in open spaces," Dubin wrote. "Mitchell is one of the fastest players in the NFL, and during his career he has excelled at creating big plays with the ball in his hands.

"The Chargers have a quality power back in Omarion Hampton and another viable option in Kimani Vidal, but if his career history is any indication, McDaniel is going to value what Mitchell brings to the table, and that's going to be of great benefit for the Los Angeles offense, which has generally lacked for explosive playmakers during the Justin Herbert era."

More: ESPN urges Commanders to draft ideal player for Jayden Daniels

Mitchell an interesting option

While the Chargers were a run-dominant team in 2025, they didn't have a running back who struck fear into a defense with home-run threats.

Mitchell will. And we have seen him in his career, slip through the line, hit the gas pedal, and away he goes.

As Dubin stated, with McDaniel and his ability to design superb run schemes, Mitchell, if he can stay healthy, could be a crucial part of what the Chargers want to do in 2026.

Yes, they have Hampton, but Mitchell is a different beast, and one who, on any given play, can score a touchdown, and that's dangerous.

So, while the move for Mitchell isn't seen as a home run right now, if given the chance under McDaniel, he could develop into quite the weapon.

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