The Washington Commanders are in the middle of an offseason rebuild, and one of their most recent moves was the signing of running back Austin Ekeler. Ekeler, a Los Angeles Charger throughout his career, begins a new chapter in Washington with a two-year, $11.43 million contract. The report sparked interest among Commanders fans, including NBA sensation Kevin Durant.
Durant is a longtime Commanders supporter, having grown up in Prince George’s County, Maryland, which borders the eastern part of Washington, DC. So when the team signed Ekeler, the two-time NBA champion couldn’t help but send a tweet.
Ekeler joins the Commanders immediately following the departure of Antonio Gibson, who recently signed with the New England Patriots. With the former Charger in tow, Washington now has two tough running backs, the other being Brian Robinson Jr., who led the club in rushing yards (733) last year. Ekeler and Robinson are anticipated to split carries for the Commanders in September.
During the 2023 season, Ekeler ran for 628 yards and five touchdowns on 179 attempts. The versatile RB also accumulated 436 receiving yards and one touchdown throw. Although his numbers were lower last year compared to previous seasons, there is no doubt…Austin Ekeler can still perform.
The 28-year-old had 164 total yards (117 rushing) and a score against the Miami Dolphins in the Los Angeles Rams’ 2023 season opener. In Week 8 against the Chicago Bears, Ekeler, a running back, had 94 receiving yards on seven catches. Performances like these demonstrate what he offers to the Commanders, who are far from finished tweaking their offence.
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