NFL Free Agency: Chargers' Austin Ekeler Signs with Commanders
The Washington Commanders have a new running back in town.
According to NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero, the Commanders are signing Los Angeles Chargers veteran Austin Ekeler.
The move comes after the team lost Antonio Gibson to the New England Patriots in free agency, but they may be on the verge of replacing him.
According to CBS Sports insider Josina Anderson, the Commanders and Las Vegas Raiders had made "preliminary inquiries" for Ekeler.
NFL Analysis Network
Ekeler, who turns 29 in May, has spent the first seven seasons of his career with the Chargers. Last year, Ekeler was in a contract dispute with the Chargers, and he ultimately failed to reach an extension with the team.
This led to a down year from Ekeler, but still strong in terms of the rest of the NFL. He recorded 1,068 scrimmage yards, a far cry from the career-best 1,637 yards he recorded in the 2022 season.
Ekeler's best days are likely behind him, but he could be one of the best backup running backs in the league should he come to Washington. He would likely fall in behind Brian Robinson Jr. on the depth chart while second-year pro Chris Rodriguez Jr. would challenge him for reps.
Ekeler is also one of the league's top pass-catching backs, which was Gibson's strength for the past four seasons. That's why Ekeler is a strong fit for the offense and could make sense in Washington.
The NFL's legal tampering period is underway, but no contracts can be made official until the new league year begins on Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET.
