Getty ImagesMichael Gehlken of the Union-Tribune San Diego reports that the Chargers hosted running back Jackie Battle for a free agent visit at team headquarters Tuesday.
The Chargers are attempting to replace No. 2 back Mike Tolbert, who signed with the Panthers. While Battle possesses none of the passing-game value Tolbert offered, the former Kansas City Chief is a hard-charging runner with surprising long speed for a 238-pound back.
Battle rushed for 70 yards and a touchdown in the Chiefs’ Week Eight overtime win against the Chargers last season. A 28-year-old career special teamer, Battle has only 190 carries through five seasons in the NFL.
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Eat ‘em up, Jackie.
I am still baffled by the Tolbert signing in Carolina…why would he do that? He misses the humidity that much?
Tolbert is 26…
as a backup to Mathews (the worst blocking back in the NFL) its not like they will expect Battle to be in on passing downs and if Mathew goes down he is a big back that can move the chains.
I’m not sure I see the reasoning behind this one. I know it’s as depth/insurance if Ryan Mathews, who should be getting all of Tolbert’s carries, doesn’t stay healthy – but wouldn’t it be better to sign a RB who can do something Mathews can’t do well, like pass protect?
Battle is pretty good. Kinda hoped the Chiefs would keep him, but Charles, Hillis, McCluster, and maybe a rookie will be alright.
Hope the Chargers sign them because they both suck raider nation baby !!
What about Michael Bush? Maybe a low-money deal?