The Washington Commanders have finalized a deal to bring former Los Angeles Chargers running back, Austin Ekeler into their roster, as per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. The agreement spans two years and could reach up to $11.43 million.
Ekeler’s departure marks the end of a productive seven-year stint in Los Angeles, where he maintained an average of 1,177 scrimmage yards per season and amassed 69 touchdowns.
Joining the Commanders, Ekeler enters a backfield recently impacted by the departure of veteran Antonio Gibson to the New England Patriots in free agency.
Expected to share carries with rising third-year player Brian Robinson Jr., Ekeler looks to contribute alongside him, as Robinson emerged as Washington’s primary running back in 2023 with 1,101 scrimmage yards.
Despite a slight decline in his yards per carry average to a career-low of 3.5 last season, Ekeler’s overall performance remained robust with 1,064 scrimmage yards in 14 games.
Although he may have lost some speed, Ekeler won’t be relied upon as the sole workhorse in Washington. Together with Robinson, they present a formidable dual-threat presence in both rushing and receiving aspects.
The lingering uncertainty in Washington revolves around who will orchestrate the offense for Ekeler and Robinson.
The Commanders are poised to part ways with third-year quarterback Sam Howell, who struggled in 2023, leading the league in interceptions and sacks taken.
With the No. 2 pick in the upcoming draft, Washington eyes a potential franchise quarterback among top prospects like Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, and Jayden Daniels.
Meanwhile, the Chargers swiftly secured a replacement for Ekeler with the reported acquisition of former Ravens running back Gus Edwards.
This move reunites Edwards with former Baltimore offensive coordinator Greg Roman, now serving under head coach Jim Harbaugh in Los Angeles.
