What Does Austin Ekeler Have Left?

What They're Saying

Ekeler’s backfield fit (for new Commanders OC Kliff Kingsbury) will play a key role in whether he rebounds. 

Here’s how the former Charger sized up new teammate Brian Robinson Jr.

“He’s a big guy,” Ekeler said at mandatory minicamp. “He’s going to catch the ball. He’s going to be a strong runner coming downhill. Doesn’t mean he doesn’t have as much wiggle. But if you compare him to me, I’m a jitterbug out there. I’m probably going to be a little bit more maneuverable than he is.”

Ekeler also believes he and Robinson are “different assets” – not necessary direct competitors.

2024 Fantasy Football Impact

Let’s think logically here. Robinson figures to see primary usage on early/run downs, including goal line snaps. Ekeler, with 440 career catches, should see the bulk of the receiving work.

Per beat writer Sam Fortier, the Commanders have experimented with two-back sets this offseason. But such a formation isn’t going to be a staple under Kingsbury.

Visit our fantasy football RB rankings, and you’ll see Ekeler is best viewed as a PPR RB3/FLEX.

Dynasty Impact

Ekeler recently signed a two-year deal, although the Commanders can get out of it with relative ease in 2025.

Our work with historical aging curves say we should expect a noticeable drop in production for age-29 RBs. Ekeler, who turned 29 in May, has totaled 1,430 career touches.