San Diego Chargers to sign running back Dexter McCluster

After losing Danny Woodhead to a torn ACL, the San Diego Chargers will reportedly sign running back Dexter McCluster.

After losing wide receiver Keenan Allen in Week 1, the San Diego Chargers made it two notable torn ACLs in two games when running back Danny Woodhead went down during Sunday’s win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.

With only undrafted free agent Kenneth Farrow and New York Giants castoff Andre Williams left behind Melvin Gordon on the depth chart, the Chargers added a running back on Tuesday.

McCluster was released by the Tennessee Titans during final cuts this year, and he had a workout with the New York Jets just prior to Week 1. He spent the 2014 and 2015 seasons in Tennessee, and Chargers’ offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt was head coach for the majority of that time. Familiarity with Whisenhunt’s offensive system, and a likely ability to contribute quickly based on that, surely drove San Diego’s decision to sign McCluster so soon after Woodhead’s season-ending status became official.

Prior to landing with the Titans, McCluster spent four seasons (2010-2013) with the Kansas City Chiefs. The best season of his career was 2011, with over 1,400 combined yards (516 rushing) and 46 receptions. McCluster has proven to be a capable pass catcher when given the opportunity, with over 50 receptions in both 2012 and 2013, and he also has three punt return touchdowns on his resume.

Related Story: San Diego Chargers RB Danny Woodhead: injury update

Woodhead had 76 and 81 receptions in both seasons he has played more than three games for the Chargers (2013 and 2015), so he’s leaving a void as a passing down back that McCluster looks well-suited to fill. An exact facsimile of what Woodhead brings to the table can’t be expected, but McCluster adds some value as a return man the Chargers would do well to put to use.