After losing running back Antonio Gibson to the New England Patriots in free agency, the Washington Commanders found a successor and came to terms with Los Angeles Chargers standout Austin Ekeler. The deal will be worth $11.43 million over two years, with a $3 million signing bonus.
Los Angeles also signed a new running back, Gus Edwards, to a two-year contract worth $6.5 million. So Ekeler has moved to Washington, where he will join running backs Brian Robinson Jr. and Chris Rodriquez Jr.
Austin Ekeler Took A Step Back in the 2023 Campaign for Los Angeles Chargers
Ekeler, who took over as Los Angeles’ top back in 2021, produced two seasons of 1,500 or more scrimmage yards before struggling to find his groove in 2023. He took a step back, only gaining 628 rushing yards and another 436 as a pass receiver out of the backfield.
Ekeler, who went undrafted in 2017, will enter his eighth season in the NFL and will be 29 years old next season. He will begin a new chapter with a new team after spending the first seven seasons of his career with the Chargers.
Ekeler will reunite with Washington Commanders Coordinator, Anthony Lynn.
Anthony Lynn, who was the Chargers’ head coach from 2017 to 2020, has been appointed as Washington’s run game coordinator and running back coach. While Ekeler has only played for the Chargers his entire career, Lynn is a familiar face who could help him improve his output.
In 2019, Ekeler had his first 1,500-yard scrimmage season under Lynn and his greatest season as a receiver. 92 receptions for 993 yards and 8 touchdowns, with an additional 557 yards on the ground.
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