Why the Ravens Are Hiding Keaton Mitchell This Preseason
Chargers’ Keaton Mitchell Sits Out Preseason Opener — Here’s Why That Might Be Good News
What Happened?
On Thursday, August 14, 2026, the Los Angeles Chargers played their first preseason game against the Houston Texans. But if you were looking for running back Keaton Mitchell on the field, you didn’t see him. He stayed on the sideline — and he wasn’t alone.
Game Date: August 14, 2026
Opponent: Houston Texans (Preseason Week 1)
Source: ESPN Box Score
Who Else Sat Out?
Mitchell joined several established starters who also didn’t play:
- Omarion Hampton — Fellow running back
- Justin Herbert — Franchise quarterback
- Several other key starters
This is normal for preseason games. Teams often rest their most important players to avoid injuries in games that don’t count.
Why This Matters for Keaton Mitchell
Here’s where it gets interesting for Chargers fans and fantasy football players:
The Depth Chart Tells a Story
The Chargers’ current depth chart lists Mitchell second behind Hampton at running back. That’s a promising spot for a player who’s never had a huge workload.
Coach Mike McDaniel Has a Plan
Head coach Mike McDaniel has already said he wants to use all three of his top running backs during the regular season. Mitchell is clearly part of that plan.
What Mitchell Brings: Pure Speed
Mitchell isn’t just another running back — he’s a home-run hitter:
| Stat | Numbers |
|---|---|
| 2025 Yards Per Carry (Baltimore) | 5.8 (on 59 attempts) |
| Career Yards Per Carry | 6.3 |
| Career High in Carries (Single Season) | 59 |
Key Point: Averaging 6.3 yards per carry for your career is elite. For context, the NFL average is usually around 4.0–4.5. Mitchell turns small holes into big gains.
Why Sitting Out Is Actually Encouraging
You might think: "If he’s good, why didn’t he play?"
Exactly the point. The Chargers didn’t need to see him in a meaningless preseason game. They already know what he can do. They were busy evaluating other players fighting for roster spots.
For a player who’s never topped 59 carries in a season, this treatment suggests:
- The coaching staff trusts him
- He has a defined role waiting
- His workload could grow significantly in Los Angeles
What This Means for the 2026 Season
The Three-Headed Monster
McDaniel wants to rotate three running backs. That likely means:
- Omarion Hampton — The lead back, early-down work
- Keaton Mitchell — The speed/change-of-pace weapon
- Third back — TBD (could be a receiver type or goal-line specialist)
Fantasy Football Implications
If you play fantasy football, Mitchell is a late-round target with upside:
- Best case: 10–12 touches/game, multiple explosive plays, 8–10 TDs
- Floor: Rotational piece, 5–7 touches, big-play dependency
- ADP Value: Likely going very late (RB40+), making him a lottery ticket
IMPORTANT REMINDER
One preseason game means very little on its own. Mitchell sitting out doesn’t guarantee a big workload. But combined with:
- The depth chart position
- The coach’s public comments
- His rare efficiency metrics
…it adds up to a player the Chargers want to protect and deploy strategically.
Summary
| What We Know | What It Suggests |
|---|---|
| Mitchell didn’t play in preseason opener | Coaching staff doesn’t need to evaluate him |
| Listed #2 on depth chart behind Hampton | Has a secured roster spot and role |
| McDaniel plans to use 3 RBs | Mitchell will get regular-season touches |
| Career 6.3 YPC on 59 carries | Elite efficiency, rare explosive trait |
| Never had >59 carries in a season | Major breakout opportunity in 2026 |
Bottom line: Keaton Mitchell is one of the most intriguing late-round running backs in 2026 fantasy drafts. The Chargers’ actions — not just words — suggest they view him as a weapon, not just a depth piece.
FAQ
Is Keaton Mitchell the starting running back for the Chargers?
No. Omarion Hampton is listed as the starter. Mitchell is the clear #2 and change-of-pace back.
Why did he sit out the preseason game if he’s not the starter?
Because the coaches already know what he can do. Preseason is for evaluating bubble players. Mitchell isn’t on the bubble — he’s in the plan.
Can Mitchell actually handle a bigger workload?
That’s the million-dollar question. He’s never had more than 59 carries in a season. But his efficiency (6.3 YPC career) suggests he produces when given chances. The Chargers’ new offense might be the perfect fit.
Should I draft him in fantasy football?
Yes — as a late-round flier (RB40+ range). He costs almost nothing and has league-winning upside if the three-back rotation works and he gets 12–15 touches per game.
Who is the third running back in the rotation?
Still unclear. The Chargers have several candidates (undrafted free agents, second-year players). This battle will play out over the next two preseason games and training camp practices.
Article based on reporting by Bruno Mulé (RotoBaller) | Source: ESPN | Published: August 14, 2026, 2:29 PM ET