Will Kimani Vidal be a consistent receiving threat for the Chargers?

The Los Angeles Chargers’ running backs had combined for only 46 receiving yards over the first four games of the season, but rookie Kimani Vidal nearly matched that in one stunning play with a 38-yard touchdown catch against the Denver Broncos. Now, Chargers fans and fantasy football players alike are wondering: Could Vidal be the receiving back the team has been missing?

Following the game, quarterback Justin Herbert shed some light on the play, noting that the team had identified weaknesses in Denver’s defense during their film study, leading to that perfectly executed wheel route. The fact that the offensive coordinator specifically designed the play for Vidal is a promising sign. It’s a move that likely wouldn’t have been made with the team’s other backs, like Gus Edwards or Hassan Haskins, and even JK Dobbins, who has struggled to stay healthy and hasn’t been a major receiving threat in the NFL.

What’s also interesting is that the call came on first down, in the first quarter, with the Chargers only leading 3-0. This suggests that Vidal might not just be a third-down, change-of-pace back used in specific situations. However, his role could be limited in passing situations if his pass protection doesn’t improve—he allowed a sack on one of his three pass-blocking attempts. To be fair, asking a smaller rookie running back to block a defensive end is no easy task.

The Chargers’ upcoming game against the Arizona Cardinals could be the perfect chance to further test Vidal’s receiving skills, especially with Edwards still sidelined. Vidal’s athletic ability is reminiscent of former Chargers back Branden Oliver, who had a solid rookie season with 36 catches for 271 yards. If Vidal can replicate that kind of production, it would be a huge boost to the Chargers’ offense and help open up more options for Herbert in the passing game.