San Diego, CA – Running back Keaton Mitchell has signed a two-year deal worth $9.25 million with the Los Angeles Chargers, a move that sees the speedy playmaker depart the Baltimore Ravens. The Chargers significantly exceeded Mitchell's projected market value, signaling a clear intent to utilize his explosive abilities. This comes after the Ravens declined to tender Mitchell as a restricted free agent, a decision that opened the door for him to explore other opportunities.
Mitchell, known for his blistering pace and ability to generate big plays – evidenced by a career average of 6.3 yards per carry and multiple runs exceeding 20 yards – found limited usage under the Ravens' previous offensive scheme. Reports indicate he was seldom given more than nine carries in a game. His departure follows a similar move by tight end Charlie Kolar, who also signed with the Chargers.
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"The Chargers made a point of giving Mitchell a considerable raise — and paying him well above his projected market value."
The former Raven's potential in new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel's system was a focal point of discussion. McDaniel's track record with swift offensive weapons, like De'Von Achane in Miami, suggests a strategic alignment with Mitchell's strengths. Mitchell also contributed as a receiver, tallying 27 receptions for 252 yards and a touchdown last season.
Injury and Recovery Clouds Rookie Year
Mitchell's rookie campaign was punctuated by a significant setback: a torn ACL suffered in Week 15. This injury curtailed his season and impacted his availability, with Mitchell initially being an inactive healthy scratch for the first month of the 2025 season before seeing action later in the year. Despite the road to recovery, Mitchell expressed confidence in regaining his pre-injury speed, even eyeing a role as a kick returner at one point.
"He appeared to regain his speed, recording four carries of at least 20 yards."
During his abbreviated rookie year, Mitchell showed flashes of brilliance, averaging 8.4 yards per carry in one stretch, significantly outperforming other backs. However, his overall involvement remained minimal, culminating in just 15 carries for 30 yards late in the season following his return from injury. Despite this, head coach John Harbaugh had previously indicated Mitchell's potential to contribute to the Ravens' offense.
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"He averaged 8.4 yards a carry, nearly 4 yards per carry better than any other running back."
Mitchell's journey with the Ravens began after missing the initial part of his rookie season due to a shoulder injury. Upon his return, he demonstrated his capability to make the active roster and contribute offensively, even if sparingly.
