Elijah Dotson (42) played the most snaps of any Chargers running back last week against the Seahawks, but he only had three carries for seven yards.

(Ryan Sun / Associated Press)

The offensive staff’s primary goal this season is to establish a powerful running game with steadfast backs combined with a physical offensive line.

That ambition led to signing former Baltimore Ravens running backs Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins and Will Dissly, one of the NFL’s best run-blocking tight ends.

“Every day at practice … we are really buying into our identity,” starting left tackle Rashawn Slater said.

For the second week in a row, however, Edwards and Dobbins will not play.

Edwards, who has been eased into the offense after an undisclosed offseason surgery, received his heaviest workload in practice this week, suggesting he was close to game ready.

Dobbins saw limited action throughout the week. Considering his significant injury history, his workload is being cautiously managed. Dobbins has said, however, he is fully recovered from a torn Achilles injury that ended his 2023 season in Week 1.

Their absences open the door for competition for the third running back spot.

Jarett Patterson, who started against the Seahawks, Elijah Dotson, who played the most snaps, and Isaiah Spiller are in the mix.

Additionally, sixth-round rookie Kimani Vidal should see his first game action. He missed some time early in training camp.

Harbaugh expressed excitement about Vidal’s potential debut, noting the rookie had an impressive week of practice.