Chargers News: Top 5 Best Potential Austin Ekeler Replacements
Amid all of the issues that the Los Angeles Chargers have faced this season already, they are also dealing with some key injuries as well. Starting running back Austin Ekeler missed their game this past weekend against the Tennessee Titans, and his status going forward remains in question.
Backup running back Joshua Kelley looked good in week one, posting 91 yards on 16 carries. But the young back couldn’t replicate the same results against Tennessee, going only 39 yards on 13 carries.
If the Bolts are going to try and turn their season around, they are going to need a strong running attack to help take some of the pressure off the passing offense. They can’t become a one-dimensional team, otherwise, their season is already lost.
So, if Ekeler is going to miss significant amounts of time, they will need to replace him. There are still some good players available on the open market, and here are the five best options.
5. Mark Ingram
Last season with the New Orleans Saints, Ingram rushed for 233 yards on 63 carries. He scored one touchdown, but he was limited due to injury. Ingram still has some power left in the tank, and he could be a strong goal-line running back for the Bolts. He is currently a sports anchor after retiring, but the idea of playing for a team like Los Angeles could intrigue him to return to action.
4. Darrell Henderson Jr.
Henderson Jr. could slide over from the Rams to join the other LA squad. He got 70 carries last season and posted 283 yards with three touchdowns. Henderson Jr. doesn't do much for the receiving game, but he did catch 17 passes last season. They could do a lot worse than him if they are willing to give him a shot.
3. J.D. McKissic
Back in the 2020 season, McKissic really put his name on the map when he ran for 365 yards on 85 carries with one rushing score. But he has made his living being a dual-threat player, as in the same season, he caught 80 passes for 589 yards and two receiving scores. He is still only 30 years old, so he could be a game-changer for this team if given the chance.
2. Rex Burkhead
Burkhead has been one of the more underrated running backs in the league for the last few seasons. He didn't see much playing time last year, but in 2021, he put up 427 yards on 122 carries and three touchdowns. His ability to catch the ball out of the backfield could help LA as well, giving them a similar player to Ekeler.
1. Leonard Fournette
Now, by far the best option out there is Fournette. Last season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he put up 668 yards on 189 attempts and scored three touchdowns. He is a force to deal with on the ground, and he has the ability to catch passes out of the backfield as well. LA couldn't really go wrong signing Fournette, but if they want him, they better act fast. There are other teams out there that are in need of a back, and he is the best available option.
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