Chargers running back Keaton Mitchell has been absent from three consecutive practices, following a brief visit to the medical tent during a preseason game against the 49ers. Offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel confirmed that Mitchell is dealing with a "mild setback," but did not provide further details regarding the specific nature of the injury.
Despite this setback, McDaniel expressed confidence in the team's running back depth, indicating that the Chargers are well-prepared with multiple capable players in the position.
He noted, "I think the running back position is, we sustained a mild setback with Keaton, but realistically, that's a position that you're always wanting to have three, and I like what our young guys are doing to press into that group."
Mitchell, who is entering his first season with the Chargers after three years with the Ravens, has a history of injuries that have impacted his playing time. He suffered a torn ACL and other structural damage during his rookie season in 2023, which necessitated extensive rehabilitation.
As a result, he played only five games in 2024 and appeared in 13 games in 2025, finishing his final season with the Ravens with 59 rushing attempts for 341 yards and one touchdown, averaging 5.8 yards per carry.
