Chargers Running Back Austin Ekeler
Austin Ekeler had a phenomenal 2019 season as he racked up 1,550 total yards and 11 touchdowns on the year. He also finished 10th in the league in receptions (second for running backs), 31st in receiving yards (second), 14th in receiving touchdowns (first) and 10th in all-purpose yards (ninth).
Ekeler has proved his versatility, consistency and talent time and time again, which earned him a the extension from the Chargers this offseason.
Where Ekeler ranks among the league comes down to what people value more in a running back: versatility and pass catching or rushing yards and touchdowns. For a quarterback like Philip Rivers, Ekeler was the perfect running back, just like those former NFL tailbacks Darren Sproles and Danny Woodhead were. With Tyrod Taylor or Justin Herbert, we will have to wait and see how the rest of the offense performs first before truly assessing Ekeler.
Ekeler proved he can be a starting running back in the NFL as he totaled 490 total yards and six total touchdowns through the first four games of the season during Melvin Gordon’s holdout. While Ekeler’s rushing numbers may not be the best, which could be due to the poor offensive line play, he can break any play and take it to the house. In terms of overall talent and production, Ekeler is a top 10 to 12 running back in the league, but due to the poor O-line play, we have yet to see what his full potential as a starter is.