The Commanders’ offseason signing Austin Ekeler gained 532 yards after the catch in 2023, including +126 yards after the catch over expected (3rd among RB).

Headed to Washington

Ekeler is signing a two-year contract with the Commanders, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The deal reportedly is worth up to $11.43 million, but with only $4.82 million guaranteed in the first season and a significant portion being incentives. Ekeler turns 29 in May and is coming off a 2023 campaign in which he experienced a massive downturn from his 2021-22 production while dealing with a high-ankle sprain and poor blocking. Even if he can't recapture his peak form, he should be useful as a passing-down back given that he has 3,884 career receiving yards and 30 receiving TDs. The…read more

Not getting tag

The Chargers don't plan to give Ekeler a franchise tag, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Ekeler was never a serious candidate for the tag, given the Chargers' hesitance to hand him big contracts in the past and his downturn in production during the 2023 season. He'll hope to convince other teams that his high-ankle sprain was a big part of the problem in 2023, along with general dysfunction in Los Angeles that made it difficult to find running lanes and gain yards. Ekeler seems like a questionable fit under new Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman -- best known for powerful…read more

Disappointing close to season

Ekeler rushed the ball 10 times for 11 yards in Sunday's 13-12 loss to the Chiefs. He added seven receptions on eight targets for 38 yards.

Analysis: The Chargers ran 80 offensive plays in the loss, with Easton Stick taking to the air 47 times. As a result, Ekeler saw limited opportunity on the ground and was held to under 15 rushing yards for the second time in his last four games. He did manage to salvage his day as a receiver by matching his highest reception total of the season. It was a fitting close to a disappointing season for the Chargers overall as well as Ekeler individually, though he did still manage 1,064 yards from scrimmage…read more

Totals 50 yards in loss

Ekeler rushed 13 times for 46 yards and caught his only target for four yards in Sunday's 16-9 loss to the Broncos.

Analysis: Ekeler was featured on offense for a Chargers team that was without its quarterback and top three wideouts Sunday. The remaining star on offense finished with a team-high 14 touches, but he was stymied by a stout Broncos defense and held to 50 total yards and no scores. In positive news, Ekeler's efforts helped him reach 1,000 yards from scrimmage in 13 semi-healthy games this season. The Chargers will still be lacking several key pieces in Week 18, so expect Ekeler to continue to be featured…read more

Lead role resumes under new HC

Ekeler rushed 15 times for 63 yards and caught three of four targets for 21 yards in Saturday's 24-22 loss to the Bills.

Analysis: Ekeler saw his role reduced to single-digit touches in last week's loss to the Raiders, but his role was quickly restored by interim head coach Giff Smith on Saturday after Brandon Staley was let go last week. Ekeler responded with one of his better performances in what has been a down year affected by injury. The 28-year-old finished with a per-carry average above 4.0 yards for just the third time in 11 attempts since returning from a high-ankle sprain back in Week 6. Two of the three have…read more

Major role reduction in loss

Ekeler rushed five times for nine yards and brought in four of six targets for 29 yards in the Chargers' 63-21 loss to the Raiders on Thursday night.

Analysis: Ekeler's rumored usage downturn essentially came a game later than expected, with Isaiah Spiller outpacing him by 11 carries and Joshua Kelley logging five rush attempts as well. With Keenan Allen (heel) sidelined, Ekeler did finish tied for second in receptions and as the runner-up in targets, but the ineffectiveness with his season-low number of carries could mean he'll operate as more of a complementary option again in a Week 16 home matchup against the Bills on Saturday, Dec. 23.

Typical usage in Week 14

Ekeler carried the ball 10 times for 51 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 24-7 loss to the Broncos. He also caught five of his seven targets for 49 yards.

Analysis: Despite coded comments from head coach Brandon Staley earlier in the week that left some speculating Ekeler would cede touches to Joshua Kelley and Isaiah Spiller, the multi-faceted back saw his usual workload while the aforementioned backups combined for nine carries and 25 yards. It's unclear if that's because the Chargers trailed from the jump and were put in an even more difficult situation after Justin Herbert left the game late in the second quarter with an injury to a finger on his…read more

Could yield carries Sunday

Though Ekeler remains in line to start, Joshua Kelley and Isaiah Spiller are also expected to see work in the Chargers' backfield Sunday against the Broncos, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Ekeler carried 14 times for 18 yards and caught two of his three targets for nine yards in last weekend's 6-0 win over the Patriots, and per Rapoport, the Chargers may be inclined to get Kelley and/or Spiller more involved Sunday. Rapoport adds that the team is expected to ride the hot hand versus Denver, be that Ekeler or one of his fellow RBs.

Could face competition for work

Ekeler may be at risk of losing out on some snaps and touches out of the backfield after Chargers head coach Brandon Staley said Wednesday that "competition for carries is going to be something that you can see happening," Kris Rhim of ESPN.com reports. "We're going to keep exploring, making adjustments, so that we can find that rhythm that I've been talking about," Staley said. "We know that Austin is a good running back. We just haven't found any rhythm in the last couple of weeks in the run game. Just need to keep after it and keep working hard in practice."

Analysis: Staley's comments come while Ekeler has mustered just 3.0 yards per carry on 110 total rushing attempts since the running back returned from a three-game absence due to a high-ankle sprain following the Chargers' Week 5 bye. Ekeler hasn't seemed to show any notable improvement as he's become further removed from the injury; as Sunday's game against the Broncos approaches, the 28-year-old is in the midst of a streak of 28 carries that have gained six yards or fewer. Joshua Kelley would be next…read more

Completely held in check

Ekeler carried the ball 14 times for 18 yards and caught two of his three targets for nine yards in Sunday's 6-0 win over the Patriots.

Analysis: Given the Patriots offense rarely managed to pose much of a threat, Ekeler and the rest of the Chargers attack was essentially tasked with not making a mistake that could give way to easy points the other way. The end result was one of Ekeler's more futile fantasy outings in his entire career, but the rainy, murky conditions certainly played a part in his ineffectiveness. The dynamic dual threat has struggled on the ground this season, but it could get easier next week against a Broncos defense…read more

Coughs up third fumble

Ekeler rushed 10 times for 32 yards and caught five of six targets for 32 yards while losing a fumble in Sunday's 20-10 loss to Baltimore.

Analysis: Ekeler's fumble didn't kill a late comeback attempt like it did in last week's loss the Packers, as that honor went to quarterback Justin Herbert in Week 12, who fumbled in the fourth quarter with the Chargers trailing by just three points. Ekeler has now lost a fumble in consecutive games while tying his previous high in total fumbles (three) despite appearing in just eight games this year. The dual-threat back has also been held to under 4.0 yards per carry in every game other than last…read more

Costly fumble in loss

Ekeler rushed 10 times for 64 yards and lost a fumble in Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Packers. He also caught two of three targets for six yards.

Analysis: Ekeler was surprisingly held at bay by a Packers defense that has struggled against the run this season. While the tailback's average of 6.4 yards per carry was impressive, Ekeler coughed up the ball in scoring territory during the fourth quarter. With minimal contribution in the passing game, it was a missed opportunity for Ekeler, who is now set to square off against a tough Ravens defense in Week 12.

100-plus total yards and touchdown

Ekeler registered 19 carries for 67 yards and a touchdown along with four receptions (on seven targets) for 48 yards in the 41-38 loss to the Lions on Sunday.

Analysis: The Lions' vaunted run defense certainly performed as advertised, as Ekeler averaged just 3.5 yards per carry over the afternoon. The electric scat back did get his customary red-zone work, which resulted in a short touchdown; however, the 28-year-old was otherwise bottled in terms of explosive plays. The seven-year pro now has six consecutive games with at least 14 carries and owns a near monopoly on the Chargers' goal-line touches, which means even with a sub 4.0-yard-per-carry average, he…read more

Touchdowns mask poor outing

Ekeler carried the ball 14 times for 47 yards and two touchdowns. He also caught two of his seven targets for 23 yards in the 27-6 win over the Jets on Monday.

Analysis: Ekeler punched in both touchdowns from a couple of yards out, but he uncharacteristically had a number of drops, specifically in the first half, that could have produced far more yardage. The Chargers offense hardly had to put much effort in this one as Zach Wilson and the Jets could barely cross the 50-yard line. Expect the mundane offensive figures to look a bit different Week 10 against a much better team overall in the Lions.

Big receiving game ends slump

Ekeler (ankle) carried the ball 15 times for 29 yards and caught seven of eight targets for 94 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 30-13 win over Chicago. He also coughed up a fumble, his first of the season.

Analysis: Ekeler continues to struggle as a rusher since returning from injury in Week 6, but he finally broke out for fantasy managers with his contributions as a receiver. The 28-year-old displayed his usual burst on a handful of his 22 combined touches Sunday, something that was lacking when he initially returned from injury. With an extra day of rest scheduled ahead of next Monday's tilt the Jets, we could see the healthiest version of Ekeler since Week 1, when he combined for 164 yards and a…read more

Logs full practice Wednesday

Ekeler (ankle) practiced fully Wednesday.

Analysis: During this past Sunday's 31-17 loss to the Chiefs, Jeff Miller of the Los Angeles Times noted that Ekeler was spotted limping off the field after a rushing attempt, but the running back was able to return to action and ended up logging 40 of 63 snaps on offense while carrying 14 times for 45 yards and catching one of his two targets for one yard. A full practice Wednesday sets the stage for Ekeler to continue to lead the Chargers backfield this weekend against the 2-5 Bears, with Joshua Kelley…read more

Kept in check during loss

Ekeler carried the ball 14 times for 45 yards in the 31-17 loss to the Chiefs on Sunday. He also caught one of his two targets for one yard.

Analysis: Ekeler appeared to sustain some sort of ankle injury in the first half, but he managed to play through it. It was an ineffective day overall for the Chargers offense, particularly in the second half as the team failed to score a single point in the final 30 minutes. While Ekeler's status will likely need to be monitored throughout the week, the workload (14 carries for Ekeler compared to seven for Joshua Kelley) would seem to suggest this won't be a significant issue moving forward.

Rusty return from injury

Ekeler (ankle) rushed 14 times for 27 yards and caught four of six targets for 35 yards in Monday's 20-17 loss to the Cowboys.

Analysis: Ekeler made his much anticipated return from the high-ankle sprain he suffered back in Week 1, reclaiming his role atop the Chargers' RB depth chart. The electric back didn't have his usual burst after coming back from a lower-body injury, averaging just 1.9 yards per attempt against Dallas. It wasn't the triumphant return managers were hoping to get from their top talent, but a healthy four quarters with a full dose of touches should be considered a success. Ekeler appears to have escaped…read more

Practices fully Thursday

Ekeler (ankle) was a full practice participant Thursday.

Analysis: Kris Rhim of ESPN.com previously relayed that Ekeler said he had a "99 percent" chance of returning to action Week 6, and the running back's full practice participation Thursday has him on track to play Monday against the Cowboys. Ekeler sustained a right high-ankle sprain Week 1, but after the Chargers' Week 5 bye, he's ready to reclaim his role as the team's top back and thus belongs back in Week 6 fantasy lineups.

Likely to return in Week 6

Ekeler (ankle) said Tuesday that he's "99 percent" certain that he'll play Monday against the Cowboys, Kris Rhim of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Since sustaining a right high-ankle sprain Week 1, Ekeler has missed three games, but after the Chargers' Week 5 bye, the running back looks as though he might be ready to return. He participated in Tuesday's unofficial practice session, and Thursday's practice report will reveal the extent of his participation to begin Week 6 prep. If he's able to get back to full participation after being listed as limited on all three reports back in Week 4, Ekeler's prediction will be set in motion, barring…read more

Practicing Tuesday

Ekeler (ankle) was present at Tuesday's unofficial practice, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Prior to the Chargers' Week 5 bye, Ekeler missed three consecutive contests due to a sprained ankle, which was believed to be of the 'high' variety. During Week 4 prep, he was listed as a limited participant on all three of the team's injury reports, so it'll be interesting to see how he shows up Thursday, when L.A. will post its first report for Week 6.

Inactive Sunday, as expected

Ekeler (ankle) is inactive for Sunday's Week 4 game against the Raiders.

Analysis: Ekeler's doubtful tag essentially sealed his third straight absence, and his lack of availability against Las Vegas now is official. Joshua Kelley, who's gained only 51 yards on 24 carries over the last two games as Los Angeles' lead back, once again is set to helm the Chargers backfield, while Ekeler's absence also could benefit the team's pass-catching corps in the form of some extra targets. Having practiced in a limited fashion throughout the week and with a Week 5 bye on tap, Ekeler seems…read more

Doubtful for Week 4

Ekeler (ankle) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Raiders.

Analysis: Ekeler, who has missed two straight games, was able to log limited practices this week, but he's trending toward another absence Sunday. Given that the Chargers are on bye Week 5, look for the team to take a cautious approach and hold Ekeler out for another game before he likely makes his return from a high-ankle sprain for a Week 6 matchup with the Cowboys on Oct. 16. Assuming Ekeler is inactive this weekend, Joshua Kelley will continue to lead the team's backfield versus Las Vegas, with…read more

Logs another limited practice

Ekeler (ankle) was a limited practice participant Thursday.

Analysis: Ekeler, who has missed two straight games, was also limited Wednesday in his return to practice, with his status for Sunday's game against the Raiders to be determined. Per Kris Rhim of ESPN.com Ekeler noted after Wednesday's session that a return to action this weekend is a "possibility." Friday's final injury report will reveal Ekeler's Week 4 injury designation, but if there's any doubt about the soundness of his ankle heading into Sunday, the Chargers could opt to err on the side of caution…read more

Logs limited practice

Ekeler (ankle) practiced Wednesday in a limited capacity.

Analysis: Ekeler has missed the Chargers' last two games and didn't practice at all last week while recovering from a high-ankle sprain, but his return to the field Wednesday -- albeit in a limited fashion -- is a positive indicator with regard to his chances of suiting up Sunday against the Raiders. He'll now have two more chances to upgrade to full participation, which he'll presumably need to do in order to avoid carrying an injury designation into Sunday's game.

Spotted at practice

Ekeler (ankle) is present for practice Wednesday, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Ekeler has missed two straight games, but his presence on the field Wednesday offers hope that the running back could return to action Sunday against the Raiders. The Chargers will release their first Week 4 injury report later Wednesday, when the extent of Ekeler's participation in practice will be known.

Could return next week

Ekeler, who is dealing with what Tom Pelissero of NFL Network describes as a higher-type ankle sprain, is hopeful regarding a possible return to action next weekend against the Raiders.

Analysis: That said, Pelissero suggests that with the Chargers on bye in Week 5, the team could elect to err on the side of caution with its top back versus Las Vegas in Week 4. As long as Ekeler is sidelined, Joshua Kelley is slated to lead Los Angeles' backfield, with Elijah Dotson and Isaiah Spiller also on hand to log complementary snaps.

Ruled out for Sunday

Ekeler (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's road game against the Vikings.

Analysis: Now that Ekeler is slated to miss his second straight contest, Joshua Kelley is in line to lead the Chargers backfield Sunday, with Elijah Dotson and Isaiah Spiller on hand to log complementary snaps. Ekeler's next chance to return to game action will arrive Week 4 against the Raiders.

Not expected to practice Friday

Ekeler (ankle) isn't expected to practice Friday, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Ekeler, who was inactive Week 2, also missed practice Wednesday and Thursday, and the running back's expected absence Friday clouds his status for Sunday's game against the Vikings. If Ekeler remains out this weekend, Joshua Kelley would be in line to lead the Chargers' Week 3 backfield, with Elijah Dotson and Isaiah Spiller in reserve.

Misses another practice

Ekeler (ankle) remained sidelined at practice Thursday, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: With Ekeler having now missed the Chargers' first two Week 3 practices, his activity at Friday's session will be crucial with regard to his chances of playing Sunday against the Vikings. If the running back remains out this weekend, Joshua Kelley would once again be in line to lead the Chargers backfield in Week 3.

Remains sidelined Wednesday

Ekeler (ankle) isn't practicing Wednesday, Adam Schefter of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Head coach Brandon Staley said Monday that there's "no timeline" for Ekeler's return from the ankle injury that kept him out for this past Sunday's loss to the Titans, so it's no surprise that the star running back isn't practicing Wednesday. If Ekeler isn't ready to play this weekend at Minnesota, Joshua Kelley would be in line to handle the majority of backfield touches against a Vikings defense that allowed 259 rushing yards to the Eagles in Week 2.

Return timetable TBD

Coach Brandon Staley noted Monday that there's "no timeline" on Ekeler's return from the ankle injury that sidelined him in Week 2, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: A previous report via Ian Rapoport of NFL Network suggested that Ekeler has a chance to return to action this weekend against the Vikings, but after missing practice all of last week, the first step toward such an outcome would be the running back returning to the field in some capacity in the coming days. In Ekeler's absence Sunday against the Titans, Joshua Kelley led the Chargers backfield, carrying 13 times for 39 yards.

Could be back Week 3

Ekeler (ankle), who has been ruled out for Sunday's matchup against the Titans, has a chance to return to the field Week 3 versus the Vikings, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Ekeler's ankle issue prevented him from practicing this week, but he doesn't look to be at risk of a long-term absence. Joshua Kelley is in line to serve as the Chargers' lead back versus Tennessee in Ekeler's stead, making Kelley a valuable option for fantasy managers even against one of the league's better run defenses. Los Angeles also has Elijah Dotson and Isaiah Spiller available in reserve.

Ruled out for Sunday

Ekeler (ankle) has been downgraded to out and will not play Sunday against the Titans, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Ekeler didn't practice this week, so this designation wasn't much of a surprise. Joshua Kelley figures to take on an extensive workload against one of the best run defenses in the leagues in Tennessee. Prior to last week, Kelley's career high in rushing yards was 49 yards on 10 attempts, as he's been primarily used as a backup to Ekeler over the years. It's entirely possible Elijah Dotson and Isaiah Spiller mix in as the "spell" back much in the same way Kelley has done, particularly in passing…read more

Doubtful for Week 2

Ekeler (ankle) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Titans after not practicing this week.

Analysis: Ekeler's Week 2 status will be confirmed ahead of Sunday's 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff, but the official doubtful designation should prompt those who roster the star running back to seek a replacement for him this weekend. If Ekeler is ruled out, Joshua Kelley would be in line to lead the Chargers backfield this weekend, with Elijah Dotson and Isaiah Spiller in reserve.

Not practicing Friday

Ekeler (ankle) wasn't spotted at practice Friday, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Ekeler didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday, so his apparent absence from Friday's session is concerning. The Chargers' final injury report of the week will reveal the running back's official injury designation, but if Ekeler is limited or out Sunday against the Titans, Joshua Kelley would be in line to see added work in the Chargers' Week 2 backfield.

Misses another practice

Ekeler (ankle) was officially listed as a non-participant in practice Thursday.

Analysis: Ekeler also missed practice Wednesday due to an ankle injury and a personal issue, but Thursday's practice report lists only the ankle issue alongside his name. What Ekeler is able to do during Friday's practice -- if anything -- thus will be telling with regard to his chances of playing Sunday against the Titans. If Ekeler is limited or out this weekend, Joshua Kelley would be in line to see an expanded profile in the Chargers backfield.

Not practicing again

Ekeler (ankle) wasn't on the field for the media-access portion of Thursday's practice, Jeff Miller of the Los Angeles Times reports.

Analysis: Unless Ekeler fits in some work behind closed doors Thursday, he'll go down as a non-participant on the Chargers' practice report for the second day in a row. It's unclear whether the ankle injury or personal matter Ekeler is tending to has played a greater part in him sitting out practices thus far in Week 2, but in any case, his status for Sunday's game in Tennessee is murky at the moment. Joshua Kelley, who rushed for a career-high 91 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries in the Chargers' Week…read more

Misses Wednesday's practice

Ekeler (ankle/personal) didn't practice Wednesday.

Analysis: In addition to managing an ankle injury that he sustained during the Chargers' Week 1 loss to the Dolphins, Ekeler was also off the practice field Wednesday while he tended to a personal matter. Added context regarding the running back's status for Sunday's game against the Titans will arrive no later than Thursday's practice. Joshua Kelley would be next up for touches in the Chargers backfield this weekend backfield if Ekeler ends up sitting out.

Dealing with ankle issue

Coach Brandon Staley relayed Monday that Ekeler is dealing with an ankle injury, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: As a result, Ekeler's standing for Wednesday's practice is "to be determined," per Staley. With that in mind, the running back's status will need to be monitored ahead of Sunday's game against the Titans. If Ekeler ends up out or limited at all this weekend, Joshua Kelley would be in line for added Week 2 touches.

Explosive in all facets

Ekeler registered 16 carries for 117 yards and one touchdown and hauled in four of five targets for 47 yards during Sunday's 36-34 loss versus the Dolphins.

Analysis: Ekeler set the tone early Sunday, bursting through the line of scrimmage and flying for a 55-yard run late in the first quarter. He'd cap off that drive with a one-yard score and later would register a 35-yard reception that would set up another Chargers touchdown in the high-scoring affair. New offensive coordinator Kellen Moore was brought in to improve the rushing attack, and the offense certainly showed out in Week 1, combining for 234 total rushing yards including four carries of 10-plus…read more

Not expected to play Saturday

Ekeler isn't in line to play in Saturday's preseason game versus the Rams, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Ekeler is among a number of starters not suiting up for the Chargers' exhibition opener. With the team's top running back sidelined, all of Joshua Kelley, Isaiah Spiller, Larry Rountree, Elijah Dotson and Tyler Hoosman can be expected to get some work out of the backfield. Ekeler's next opportunity for preseason action arrives Sunday, Aug. 20 against the Saints.

Staying in LA with new incentives

Ekeler is expected to remain with the Chargers for 2023 after they added $1.75 million in incentives for the final season of his contract, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Ekeler requested a trade earlier this offseason, and while a minor adjustment to his current contract isn't exactly what he wanted, it'll apparently be enough to keep him in Los Angeles for one more year without a holdout. The 28-year-old led the NFL in touchdowns each of the past two seasons, scoring 38 times in 33 games while averaging 96.8 scrimmage yards. Ekeler figures to be busy again this season given the questionable backfield depth behind him, though Justin Herbert is expected to push…read more

Not present for Day 1 of OTAs

Ekeler wasn't present Monday for the first day of Los Angeles' OTAs, Jeff Miller of the Los Angeles Times reports.

Analysis: Ekeler wanted an extension ahead of the 2023 campaign, which is the final year under his current four-year contract, but with no progress made, he requested and was granted permission to seek a trade. However, he still remains with the Chargers following the draft, and it's becoming more likely he'll have to stick in Los Angeles for at least one more year before testing the open market in 2024. Despite the offseason antics, head coach Brandon Staley has remained steady and expects Ekeler to be…read more

Not at voluntary workouts

Ekeler isn't present Monday for voluntary offseason workouts, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: This was expected, with no progress reported since Ekeler requested and received permission in March to seek a trade. He wants an extension as he heads into the final season of a four-year contract that he's easily outplayed, and his trade request seems to be an acknowledgement that the Chargers are unlikely to give him the deal he wants. There's a possible holdout brewing with the first mandatory team activities only a few weeks away, though it's still possible the team changes its mind on…read more

Could remain in L.A.

Ekeler, who requested and received permission last month to pursue potential trade options, acknowledged Tuesday in an appearance on Sirius XM Fantasy Sports Radio that he may remain with the Chargers in 2023. "Time will tell, and we'll see what happens after the draft," Ekeler said, regarding his future with the team. "The worst-case scenario right now out of all of it, I'll come back and I'll have to play for the Chargers for a year and bet on myself and then be a free agent next year."

Analysis: The star running back, who turns 28 in May, is in line to earn $6.25 million in the final season of his four-year, $24.5 million deal with Los Angeles. While Ekeler has stated that he wants to remain with the Chargers, his current trade request stemmed from him being unable to make progress in extension talks with the team, thus prompting him to pivot toward looking for a franchise willing to make a long-term commitment to him.

Permitted to seek trade

The Chargers have granted Ekeler permission to seek a trade, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Analysis: The report notes that the running back's request stems from a lack of progress in discussions regarding a new contract. Per Lindsey Thiry of ESPN, Ekeler is slated to earn $6.25 million in 2023, the final season of his current four-year, $24.5 million contract. It remains to be seen if his request leads to a trade, or alternatively results in an extension from the Chargers, but either way the star back appears to be angling for a payday more in line with his high level of production.

Reportedly seeking trade

Ekeler is reportedly seeking permission to speak with other teams about a potential trade, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Analysis: Schefter suggests that the star running back's reported request stems from a lack of progress in discussions regarding a potential contract extension between the Chargers and Ekeler. It remains to be seen if the team is amenable to moving Ekeler, but under the current terms of his deal with the team, the 27-year-old is due $6.25 million in 2023, the final year of his deal with Los Angeles, per Schefter.

Scores twice in playoff defeat

Ekeler rushed the ball 13 times for 35 yards and two touchdowns in Saturday's 31-30 wild-card round loss to the Jaguars. He added two receptions for eight yards.

Analysis: Ekeler appeared to be in line for a massive game, as he reached the end zone twice in the first quarter from 13 and six yards away. However, he struggled significantly from an efficiency perspective, particularly in the second half when he had only five carries for zero yards. Perhaps most concerning was Ekeler's continues lack of involvement as a pass catcher, as he earned four or fewer targets in his final five contests. He'll enter the final year of his current contract with the Chargers in…read more

Nets 70 total yards in finale

Ekeler rushed 11 times for 34 yards and secured all four targets for 36 yards in the Chargers' 31-28 loss to the Broncos on Sunday. He also lost a fumble.

Analysis: Ekeler put together a largely pedestrian performance to close out the regular season, although of overriding importance was the fact he came out of the contest unscathed. Ekeler finished the 2022 regular season with three straight four-catch efforts to put the finishing touches on a 107-722-5 line through the air, and he also eclipsed the 900-yard mark on the ground for the second consecutive campaign. Ekeler is naturally slated to play a pivotal role in the Chargers' playoff fortunes beginning…read more

Runs through Rams

Ekeler rushed the ball 10 times for 122 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 31-10 win over the Rams. He added four receptions for 39 yards.

Analysis: Ekeler saw his lowest carry total since Week 13, though he did plenty of damage on limited touches. The highlight was a 72-yard touchdown run midway through the second quarter, which came five minutes of game time after Ekeler had found the end zone from 10 yards away. Though he did plenty of damage as a rusher, Ekeler also bounced back as a receiver, a positive sign given that he had only 24 combined receiving yards across his last two games. With playoff seeding potentially still in the…read more

Cleared for Week 17 action

Ekeler (knee) doesn't carry an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Rams after practicing fully Friday.

Analysis: Ekeler logged limited sessions Wednesday and Thursday, but the running back's return to a full session Friday paves the way for him to face the Rams on Sunday. Assuming no in-game setbacks, Ekeler -- who has logged a total of 16 TDs in 15 games to date -- should see enough carries and targets Week 17 to continue to maintain fantasy relevance as the Chargers' clear-cut top backfield option.

Logs another limited practice

Ekeler (knee) was limited at practice Thursday.

Analysis: Given that Ekeler was also listed as limited on Wednesday's practice estimate, the Chargers' top running back will presumably need to practice fully Friday in order to avoid an injury designation ahead of Sunday's game against the Rams. So far there's been nothing to suggest that Ekeler's Week 17 status is in danger, but if he's limited at all this weekend, Joshua Kelley would be next up for added backfield touches.

Limited on practice estimate

Ekeler was listed as a limited participant on Wednesday's estimated practice report with a knee injury.

Analysis: Ekeler's reps were capped in the Chargers' first practice session since Monday's 20-3 win over the Colts. In that contest, Ekeler handled a 60 percent snap share while carrying 18 times for 67 yards and two touchdowns and catching all four of his targets for 12 yards. The extent of the knee issue isn't known, but as long as Ekeler remains a participant in practice in some capacity Thursday and Friday, he should be in good position to play Sunday against the Rams.

Scores twice against Colts

Ekeler rushed the ball 18 times for 67 yards and two touchdowns in Monday's 20-3 win over the Colts. He also caught all four of his targets for 12 yards.

Analysis: Ekeler entered the game with concerns about a shoulder injury, but he turned in his second-highest number of carries in a game this season. He didn't find much room to run -- he had only one gain of more than 10 yards -- but managed a pair of scores from one yard away to turn in a productive performance. While he has three touchdowns in his last two games, Ekeler has also been limited to 159 total yards in that span.

Gets shoulder checked out

Head coach Brandon Staley said Monday that Ekeler had tests done on his shoulder, but they came back negative, Jeff Miller of the Los Angeles Times reports.

Analysis: Ekeler briefly left the field during the Chargers' first offensive possession of Week 15, but he quickly returned after getting checked on by trainers. He went on to rush 12 times for 58 yards and a score while securing two of three targets for 12 additional yards. Whatever shoulder issue Ekeler picked up early in Sunday's win over the Titans doesn't appear to be significant and shouldn't impact his availability moving forward, though the running back's participation at practice during Week 16…read more

Gets into end zone Sunday

Ekeler carried the ball 12 times for 58 yards and a touchdown and caught two of three targets for 12 yards in Sunday's 17-14 win over the Titans.

Analysis: The running back got checked out for a possible arm injury after the Chargers' first drive of the game but returned quickly, although Ekeler wound up ceding more work than usual to Joshua Kelley the rest of the way. Ekeler's three-yard TD run in the fourth quarter was his ninth rushing touchdown and 14th total score of the season, and he's 173 yards short of his third career campaign with at least 1,500. He'll look to pad those numbers considerably in Week 16 against a Colts defense that's been…read more

Scores touchdown yet again

Ekeler carried the ball 15 times for 45 yards and caught all eight of his targets for 59 yards in Sunday's 23-17 win over the Dolphins. He also scored a rushing touchdown.

Analysis: Ekeler's longest run actually came on a Wildcat RPO as the talented running back was otherwise bottled up on the ground. The 27-year-old continues to be a menace near the goal line, with Sunday's score marking the 13th touchdown on the campaign, good for second-most in the NFL. The pass-catching maven shows no signs of slowing down and will face the Titans in Week 15.

Tallies 100-plus total yards

Ekeler carried the ball 10 times for 35 yards and also nabbed five of his six targets for 67 yards in Sunday's 27-20 loss to the Raiders.

Analysis: That marks two straight games in which the Raiders have held Ekeler to under 40 yards rushing, but at least in the rematch the talented back was able to gather a bit more receiving production. Ekeler remains one of the most consistent fantasy running backs given his usage as both a runner and receiver and his ability to finish in the red zone. Even with a handful of difficult matchups to come, the 27-year-old is a set-and-forget stud every week.

Heavy volume as pass catcher

Ekeler recorded five rushes for 20 yards in Sunday's 25-24 win over Arizona. He added 11 receptions on 15 targets for 60 yards and a touchdown.

Analysis: Ekeler was bottled up on the ground, with Justin Herbert serving as the team's leading rusher. However, Ekeler managed to make up for it through volume as a pass catcher by matching his season high in targets while recording his third game with 10 or more receptions. The highlight of his performance came with 15 seconds left in the game when he caught a one-yard touchdown that set up the game-winning two-point conversion. Though it's impossible to complain about Ekeler's production through 11…read more

Posts 100 total yards in loss

Ekeler carried the ball 19 times for 83 yards and a touchdown and caught both of his targets for 17 yards in Sunday's 30-27 loss to the Chiefs.

Analysis: After tallying nine receptions in the Week 2 loss to the Chiefs, some expected Ekeler to once again act as a pass-catching maven in the Week 11 rematch. Instead, the do-it-all back was a force on the ground, registering 83 rushing yards, good for his third-best mark since Week 3 of the 2020 season. The veteran's touchdown also put him one behind the current season leader, Jamaal Williams, who has 12 on the campaign -- an amazing stat considering Ekeler didn't score a touchdown until Week 4. The…read more

Limited to short catches

Ekeler carried the ball six times for 24 yards and caught seven of his 12 targets for 39 yards in Sunday's 22-16 loss to the 49ers.

Analysis: The Chargers tried to limit the 49ers' effective pass rush by checking it down to Ekeler, and while the dual-threat running back did snare a handful of tosses, there just wasn't much opportunity to tally yards after the catch. Sunday also saw the end of Ekeler's five-game touchdown streak as the Chargers curiously opted to throw on the majority of their red-zone plays. It should get a bit easier next week as the Chargers take on the Chiefs in a pivotal divisional battle.

Scores TDs as rusher and receiver

Ekeler rushed 14 times for 47 yards and a touchdown while catching seven of nine targets for 24 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-17 win over the Falcons. He also lost a fumble.

Analysis: Ekeler got the Chargers on the board with a two-yard touchdown run in the second quarter, then gave his team a 14-10 lead with a one-yard touchdown catch in the final minute of the first half. With the Chargers driving for a winning field goal down the stretch, Ekeler fumbled at Atlanta's 20-yard line, but he was bailed out as the Falcons fumbled later on the same play, resulting in the Chargers getting the ball back and making the game-winning kick three plays later. Ekeler has found the end…read more

Cleared for Week 9 action

Ekeler (abdomen) doesn't carry an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Falcons after practicing fully Friday.

Analysis: Ekeler was added to the Chargers' Week 9 injury report after logging a limited practice Thursday, but he's good to go Sunday after returning to a full session Friday. With top WRs Keenan Allen (hamstring) and Mike Williams (ankle) both having been ruled out, Ekeler once again figures to remain a focal point in his team's offense this weekend. In his last outing, the running back ended up carrying the ball nine times for 31 yards and a TD, while catching all 12 of his targets for 96 yards and…read more

Added to injury report

Ekeler (abdomen) was limited at practice Thursday, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Ekeler practiced fully Wednesday, so his addition to the Chargers' Week 9 injury report Thursday is notable. Friday's final report will clarify whether the team's top running back approaches Sunday's game against the Falcons with an injury designation or fully cleared to play.

Scores two TDs in Sunday's loss

Ekeler carried the ball nine times for 31 yards and a touchdown and caught all 12 of his targets for 96 yards and a second TD in Sunday's 37-23 loss to the Seahawks.

Analysis: The running back did his best to keep the Chargers in the game after they faced a 17-0 deficit coming out of the first quarter, and Ekeler wound up leading the team in receptions, targets and receiving yards due to multiple injuries among the wideouts. He's topped 100 scrimmage yards in three of the last four games, piling up 300 rushing yards, 218 receiving yards and an incredible eight TDs (five rushing, three receiving) over that stretch, but Ekeler will be able to take a breather during Los…read more

Stands out as receiver

Ekeler carried the ball 14 times for 36 yards and a touchdown in Monday's 19-16 win over the Broncos. He added 10 receptions on 16 targets for 47 yards.

Analysis: Ekeler continued to serve as the most significant part of the Chargers' offense, as he led the team in targets, receptions and carries. Despite the opportunities, he was largely held in check from an efficiency perspective as he posted only one gain of double-digit yards across his 24 touches. However, volume alone was enough for Ekeler to end up with a productive stat line, and his six-yard touchdown rush also helped. He now has at least one touchdown in three consecutive games, though this…read more

Sets career high in rushing yards

Ekeler carried the ball 16 times for 173 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 30-28 win over the Browns. He also caught all four of his targets for 26 yards and an additional score.

Analysis: The Chargers gashed the Browns run defense to the tune of 238 total yards with Ekeler once again putting together a monster performance, setting a career high in rushing yards in the win. After starting the season off slow, Ekeler now has 223 rushing yards and 75 receiving yards to go along with five touchdowns over the past two weeks. Expect narrower running lanes in a pivotal AFC West battle against the Broncos next week.

Explodes for three total touchdowns

Ekeler carried the ball 13 times for 60 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 34-24 win over the Texans. He added six receptions on seven targets for 49 yards and a touchdown.

Analysis: Ekeler had largely been bottled up on the ground through the first three games of the season, but he exploded for a big performance both on the ground and as a receiver. He tallied both of his rushing scores prior to halftime, punching the ball in from 10 and 20 yards, respectively. Sony Michel got expanded work on the ground in the second half as the Chargers tried to run out the clock, but Ekeler did clinch the victory with a 14-yard receiving score toward the end of the fourth quarter. While…read more

Absent on the ground

Ekeler carried the ball just four times for five yards and caught all eight of his targets for 48 yards in Sunday's 38-10 thrashing at the hands of the Jaguars.

Analysis: The Chargers attempted just 11 designed runs as consecutive turnovers to begin the second quarter completely threw out the typical game plan. Sunday marked the first time since 2019 that Ekeler saw fewer than five carries in a game in which he was healthy throughout. It's hard to imagine such imbalance in future weeks, but it's clear the Chargers have focused on giving the star running back less carries in an effort to save him throughout the season. More opportunities both on the ground and…read more

PPR maven in loss

Ekeler tallied 14 carries for 39 yards and also registered nine receptions (10 targets) for 55 yards in Thursday's 27-24 loss to Kansas City.

Analysis: Ekeler logged four of his nine receptions on the Chargers' final drive as the team attempted a double-digit comeback. As was the case in their Week 1 win over the Raiders, the Chargers once again opted to diversify the backfield carries with Joshua Kelley and Sony Michel recording four rushes apiece. While Ekeler, who racked up 20 total touchdowns in 2021, has yet to find the end zone over his first two contests, he has at least maintained PPR utility, by recording 13 catches (on 14 targets) in…read more

Inefficient despite win

Ekeler tallied 14 carries for 36 yards and also corralled four receptions for 36 yards in Sunday's 24-19 win over the Raiders.

Analysis: The veteran running back registered the bulk of the opportunities out of the backfield, but he wasn't able to make much headway in what was a difficult matchup overall on the ground. Perhaps more crucially for fantasy managers, no one behind Ekeler on the backfield depth chart did much of anything in this contest either as both Joshua Kelley (six touches, 35 yards) and Sony Michel (seven carries, 12 yards) were stymied. Expect Ekeler to rebound against a shaky Chiefs defense next week.

Continues to lead backfield

Ekeler, who logged 1,558 scrimmage yards and 20 total TDs in 16 games last season, remains firmly atop the Chargers' RB depth chart as training camp approaches, per Lindsey Thiry of ESPN and Daniel Popper of The Athletic.

Analysis: As long as the 27-year-old remains healthy, he'll be a valuable fantasy asset, especially given his usage as a pass-catcher out of the Chargers' backfield. With Justin Jackson no longer on the roster, Isaiah Spiller, Larry Rountree and Joshua Kelley are in the mix to handle complementary work, and though the team's No. 2 role hasn't been handed to Spiller, it's one that the 2022 fourth-rounder has a solid chance to claim. If so, he'd be the player to target in the event that Ekeler misses any…read more

Two TDs cap off historic season

Ekeler registered 16 carries for 64 yards and also caught five of his 12 targets for 35 yards to go along with two total touchdowns in Sunday's 35-32 overtime loss to the Raiders.

Analysis: Ekeler tied the Colts' Jonathan Taylor for the most total touchdowns this season despite playing one fewer game. The dynamic running back asserted himself as one of the premier red-zone specialists in the NFL and answered his critics by remaining mostly healthy despite a massive increase in workload. The fifth-year running back did fall short of his lofty projections in terms of receptions, but that's in large part because Ekeler was forced to take on far more carries than anticipated. The…read more

Tops century mark once more

Ekeler (illness) tallied 17 carries for 58 yards and one touchdown to go along with three receptions for 54 yards in Sunday's 34-13 win over the Broncos.

Analysis: A week after testing positive for COVID-19 and subsequently missing the demoralizing loss to the Texans, Ekeler came right back and continued to build upon his touchdown streak, extending his consecutive games-scored total to seven. The emergence of Justin Jackson (60 total yards on 15 touches) should help the dynamic jack-of-all trades running back get a bit of rest throughout next week's game, but expect Ekeler to remain the Chargers' top weapon in the red zone.

Activated off COVID list

Ekeler has been activated off the reserve/COVID-19 list, per the NFL's official transaction report.

Analysis: With Ekeler back in the mix and in line to reclaim his starting running back duties, look for Justin Jackson and Joshua Kelley to revert to their usual complementary roles when the Chargers face the Broncos on Sunday.

Not cleared for Week 16

Ekeler announced on Instagram that he tested positive for COVID-19 again Saturday and won't play Sunday against the Texans, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Until Ekeler, who was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday, is able to clear COVID protocols, Justin Jackson is poised to head the Chargers' backfield, with Joshua Kelley a candidate for added touches and Larry Rountree likely to be active in a depth role against Houston.

Not confident in playing Week 16

Ekeler (illness) acknowledged earlier this week during his weekly appearance on Yahoo Sports' "Ekeler's Edge" fantasy football show that his chances of returning from the reserve/COVID-19 list prior to Sunday's game against the Texans aren't "looking good." "Just dealing with this day to day, you know, we have new protocols in place, I had to get tested every day and have two negative tests, no symptoms," Ekeler said, recounting his experience since testing positive for the virus earlier this week. "And so right now I can tell you, it's not looking good. Just because of the history of COVID and how long it usually takes to dissipate or at least for your body to beat it."

Analysis: If vaccinated, Ekeler is eligible to play so long as he clears league protocols, but based on his comments on his situation to this point, he's preparing as though he won't be able to go Week 16. In his interview with Yahoo Sports' Liz Loza, Ekeler went as far as recommending that fantasy managers pick up his backup, Justin Jackson, who will likely be primed for a larger workload in the event Ekeler sits. Joshua Kelley also looms as a depth option out of the Los Angeles backfield and should…read more

Tests positive for COVID-19

The Chargers placed Ekeler on the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday after he tested positive for the virus, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Reports surfaced Monday suggesting that Ekeler was headed to the list, but it wasn't until Wednesday that the running back was officially deactivated. According to Daniel Popper of The Athletic noted Monday that Ekeler is day-to-day, which suggests that he's vaccinated and therefore has a chance to play Sunday in Houston if he can test out of the NFL's COVID-19 protocol. If not, Justin Jackson would be the top candidate to replace Ekeler as the Chargers' lead back.

Not practicing Wednesday

Ekeler wasn't spotted at practice Wednesday, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Ekeler was absent from Monday's unofficial practice session, with head coach Brandon Staley seemingly hinting afterward that Ekeler was likely headed to the reserve/COVID-19 list, according to Popper. However, Ekeler wasn't among the players placed on the list that today, perhaps suggesting some uncertainty about a positive COVID-19 test result. Later Wednesday, Los Angeles will release its first Week 16 practice report, which will provide an explanation for Ekeler's absence.

Misses practice, Week 16 status cloudy

Ekeler didn't practice Monday, but he wasn't among the seven Chargers placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Popper reported earlier Monday that Ekeler was headed to the list, but the Chargers elected to forgo deactivating the running back, at least for the time being. Los Angeles won't release its first Week 16 injury report until Wednesday, so it won't be known until that time why Ekeler was kept off the field Monday. In any case, coach Brandon Staley told Popper that Ekeler is day-to-day, so the 26-year-old seemingly has a chance to play Sunday against the Texans.

Headed to COVID-19 list

The Chargers are expected to place Ekeler on the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Ekeler is one of several Chargers headed to the list, though it's not yet clear whether the running back has tested positive for the virus. His status for Sunday's game against the Texans has yet to be determined, but Justin Jackson and Joshua Kelley should see increased playing time if Ekeler isn't cleared for Week 16.

Logs 12 carries Thursday

Ekeler (ankle) carried the ball 12 times for 59 yards and a score in Thursday's 34-28 loss to the Chiefs. He also caught all four of his targets for 23 yards.

Analysis: In Thursday's divisional matchup, the Chargers elected to not feature Ekeler -- who has been dealing with ankle soreness -- in the red zone at critical junctures. Meanwhile, the duo of Justin Jackson and Joshua Kelley combined for 20 carries, as the team managed the workload of Ekeler, who was considered a game-time decision approaching the contest. On the heels of a short week, the star back will now have some added time to rest and recover in advance of the Chargers' Dec. 26 road game against…read more

Suits up Thursday night

Ekeler (ankle) is listed as active for Thursday night's game against Kansas City, Jeff Miller of the Los Angeles Times reports.

Analysis: The Chargers' lead back will give it a go Thursday, and while Taylor Bisciotti of NFL Network previously suggested that Ekeler may not handle his normal workload level, we'd imagine he'll still get a share of touches in the absence of any in-game setbacks. Also in the team's Week 15 backfield mix are Justin Jackson and Joshua Kelley, who could mix in more than usual as Ekeler works through his ankle issue.

Likely to suit up Thursday

Ekeler (ankle), who is listed as questionable for Thursday's game against the Chiefs, is expected to play, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The Chargers won't decide on Ekeler's status until after evaluating him in a pregame workout, but barring a setback, he'll avoid the inactive list and start at running back as he usually does. However, Taylor Bisciotti of NFL Network notes that head coach Brandon Staley mentioned that Ekeler is experiencing more soreness than expected with the ankle he sprained in last Sunday's win over the Giants. With that in mind, Bisciotti, citing a source, has been told that Ekeler won't handle a full…read more

Dealing with ankle soreness

Chargers head coach Brandon Staley said Ekeler (ankle), who is listed as questionable for Thursday's contest against Kansas City, is "just sore" and is being viewed as a game-time decision, Gilbert Manzano of The Orange County Register reports. "We're going to make sure before the game that he's feeling OK," Staley said.

Analysis: After going down as a limited participant on the practice reports the Chargers released Tuesday and Wednesday, Ekeler looks to be trending toward an active status for Week 15, barring a setback in pregame warmups. Even so, fantasy managers planning on using Ekeler this week will still want to verify that he avoids the Chargers' inactive list, which will be released 90 minutes prior to Thursday's 8:20 p.m. ET kickoff. If active, Ekeler could still be at risk of having his snap count and touches…read more

Deemed game-time decision

Ekeler (ankle), who is listed as questionable for Thursday's game against the Chiefs, is slated to go through a pregame warmup before the Chargers decide on his status for the contest, Field Yates of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Safety Derwin James (hamstring) and cornerback Asante Samuel (concussion) will also go through workouts before the Chargers determine their availability, though Ekeler's involvement in practices Tuesday and Wednesday would appear to bode well for his chances of gaining clearance prior to Thursday's 8:20 p.m. ET kickoff. If Ekeler ends up sitting out Week 15 or takes on a lighter workload than normal, Justin Jackson, Joshua Kelley and possibly Larry Rountree could all have enhanced roles in the…read more

Questionable for Thursday

Ekeler (ankle) is listed as questionable for Thursday's game against Kansas City.

Analysis: After being listed as a non-participant on Monday's practice report, Ekeler was limited Tuesday and Wednesday. According to Jeff Miller of the Los Angeles Times, Chargers head coach Brandon Staley said that Ekeler could have returned to this past Sunday's game against the Giants after sustaining a sprained left ankle, so the running back is seemingly trending toward active status Week 15. Either way, Ekeler's availability will be confirmed approximately 90 minutes before Thursday's 8:20 p.m. ET…read more

Practicing Wednesday

Ekeler (ankle) is participating in practice Wednesday, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Ekeler was listed as a non-participant on Monday's estimated practice report before being upgraded to limited participation Tuesday. Receiver Mike Williams (heel) and tight end Jared Cook (quad) also are practicing Wednesday, so if those two and Ekeler are both able to gain clearance for Thursday's game against the Chiefs, quarterback Justin Herbert could have a healthy group of pass catchers at his disposal for the highly anticipated AFC West matchup.

Gets limited tag Tuesday

Ekeler (ankle) was limited at Tuesday's walkthrough.

Analysis: One day removed from being estimated as a non-participant on the Chargers' initial practice report of Week 15, Ekeler managed some activity as the team gears up for Thursday's divisional showdown with Kansas City. He appears to be trending in the right direction after getting forced out of the team's Week 14 win versus the Giants with an ankle injury that coach Brandon Staley considered to be "nothing major" Monday, per Daniel Popper of The Athletic. Still, Ekeler's status is one to monitor…read more

DNP on practice estimate

Ekeler (ankle) was listed as a non-participant on Monday's practice estimate, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: That said, coach Brandon Staley has indicated that Ekeler's ankle issue is "nothing major," and that the Chargers' top back is expected back at practice in advance of Thursday night's game against Kansas City.

Not expected to miss time

Ekeler (ankle) is expected to be fine moving forward and coach Brandon Staley said after Sunday's 37-21 win over the Giants that Ekeler could have returned to the game if necessary, Jeff Miller of the Los Angeles Times reports.

Analysis: Ekeler exited in the third quarter, and the Chargers didn't see a need to push him with the game well in hand. Staley's post-game comments suggest the star running back is unlikely to miss additional time, but Ekeler's participation in practice leading up to Thursday's game against the Chiefs will still bear monitoring, as the short week falls at an inconvenient time for the banged-up Ekeler. Fellow running backs Justin Jackson and Joshua Kelley saw a near-even split in opportunities against…read more

Picks up ankle injury Sunday

Ekeler exited Sunday's contest against the Giants due to an ankle injury.

Analysis: Ekeler picked up the injury midway through the third quarter during a three-yard run. Per Daniel Popper of The Athletic, Chargers trainers worked on Ekeler's left ankle before helping him off the field. After receiving a heavy tape job and testing it out on the sideline, the team determined the running back to be questionable to return. If he doesn't get back in the game, Ekeler will finish Week 14 with 12 carries for 68 yards and one touchdown and two catches (on four targets) for 17 yards.…read more

Good to go this week

Ekeler (ankle) does not carry an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Giants after practicing fully Friday.

Analysis: Ekeler thus is in line to continue to serve as the Chargers' clear-cut top back this weekend, a fantasy-friendly role that through 12 games has resulted in him scoring 15 total TDs, while averaging 12.4 carries for 55.3 yards and 4.7 catches for 43.2 yards per contest. He figures to remain busy against New York on Sunday, especially with PPR ace Keenan Allen (reserve/COVID-19 list) slated to be out this weekend.

Another limited practice

Ekeler (ankle) remained limited at practice Thursday.

Analysis: Though Ekeler has logged back-to-back limited practice sessions, so far there's been nothing to suggest that he's in much danger of missing Sunday's game against the Giants. Friday's final injury report will reveal whether the Chargers' lead back heads into the weekend with an injury designation or fully cleared for Week 14 action.

Limited by ankle issue

Ekeler (ankle) was a limited participant at practice Wednesday.

Analysis: Per Daniel Popper of The Athletic, Ekeler emerged from the Chargers' Week 13 win over the Bengals dealing with "bumps and bruises," according to head coach Brandon Staley. Wednesday's injury report indicates that the running back's ankle is the specific concern in play, but the fact that he practiced in some capacity suggests that he has a chance to remain in the lineup this weekend against the Giants, a notion that would be solidified by Ekeler participating in Thursday's session as well.

Banged up after Sunday's win

Chargers head coach Brandon Staley said Ekeler is dealing with "bumps and bruises" following Sunday's 41-22 win over the Bengals, but the running back is expected to practice during the upcoming week, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Fantasy managers will still want to check back in on Ekeler to make sure he's back on the field Wednesday for the start of Week 14 prep. Because Staley didn't specifically say that Ekeler was dealing with an injury, the 26-year-old will most likely be ready to handle his normal workload by the time this weekend's game against the Giants arrives. Ekeler carried 14 times for 59 yards and a touchdown and recorded five receptions for 45 yards on five targets in the victory over Cincinnati.

Two fumbles in win

Ekeler carried the ball 14 times for 59 yards and a touchdown and caught all five of his targets for 45 yards in Sunday's 41-22 win over the Bengals. He also lost two fumbles.

Analysis: Ekeler uncharacteristically fumbled twice, losing control of the ball immediately after securing receptions in both the second and third quarter. Those miscues lessened what should have been another stellar fantasy day considering the multi-talented back scored a touchdown in his fourth consecutive game. Ekeler has admitted this season's additional workload has been challenging, but with the Chargers struggling to find any sort of reliable change-of-pace option, expect the 26-year-old to…read more

Nearly eclipses 100 total yards

Ekeler tallied 12 carries for 31 yards and caught six of his eight targets for 68 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 28-13 loss to the Broncos.

Analysis: Ekeler has now scored a touchdown in seven of the last nine games and has seven receiving scores in that span. It wasn't all great news for Ekeler, however, as the talented running back was held under four yards per carry for just the second time since October while the Chargers fell into a pass-heavy game script. It's been a career year for the dynamic dual threat, and with a favorable schedule down the stretch, expect Ekeler to continue to pile up the numbers.

Four touchdowns in win

Ekeler carried the ball 11 times for 50 yards and also caught six of his seven targets for 65 yards to go along with four total touchdowns in Sunday's 41-37 win over the Steelers.

Analysis: Ekeler's massive day came courtesy of essentially being the sole focus in the red zone, with each of his four touchdowns coming within 20 yards of paydirt. The dynamic scatback now has an impressive 13 combined touchdowns in just 10 games, just one off his combined touchdown total from each of the past two seasons. While Ekeler has less than 20 combined touches in four of the last five games, the heavy red-zone emphasis has been a major boon for fantasy managers.

Scores again in Sunday's loss

Ekeler carried the ball 11 times for 44 yards and caught three of six targets for 15 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 27-20 loss to the Vikings.

Analysis: The fifth-year back has failed to reach 100 scrimmage yards three times in the last four contests, but Ekeler continues to supply fantasy value thanks to his nose for the end zone -- he has nine TDs (five rushing, four receiving) in nine games on the season. Ekeler faces a potentially tough matchup in Week 11 against the Steelers.

Tops 80 yards in win

Ekeler carried the ball 17 times for 59 yards and caught all three of his targets for 23 yards in Sunday's 27-24 win over the Eagles.

Analysis: While he managed a solid yardage total, the performance counts as a disappointing one for Ekeler, as it's only the second time this season he's been both held below 100 scrimmage yards and kept out of the end zone in a game. The 26-year-old running back has caught at least three passes in seven straight contests, a streak he seems likely to extend in Week 10 against the Vikings.

Big day in loss

Ekeler (hip) carried the ball 11 times for 64 yards and a touchdown and also caught six of his 10 targets for 60 yards in Sunday's 27-24 loss to the Patriots.

Analysis: Despite appearing on the injury report late in the week with a hip injury and eventually earning a questionable designation for Sunday's contest, Ekeler was a critical factor of a disjointed offense that was plagued by miscommunication. The end result saw the dynamic tailback tally his third straight game with at least four receptions and 40 receiving yards, and his fourth game this season with at least 50 rushing and receiving yards. The 27-year-old is easily on pace to set a career high in…read more

Active for Week 8

Ekeler (hip) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Patriots.

Analysis: There had been concern regarding Ekeler's Week 8 status after he missed practice both Thursday and Friday, but coach Brandon Staley's comments following Friday's session suggested that the Chargers were hopeful they'd have their top back available Sunday, a notion that was reinforced by subsequent reports. Now that he's confirmed as active versus New England, Ekeler is in line to continue to head the Chargers backfield in the absence of any setbacks, with Justin Jackson and Larry Rountree on…read more

Ready to play

Ekeler (hip), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Patriots, told Adam Schefter of ESPN that he'll be ready to play.

Analysis: Ekeler's hip injury cost him practice time during the week, but the running back himself seems confident in his health. While Ekeler's own optimism about his availability isn't as definitive as an official word from the team, his positive outlook should leave fantasy managers encouraged. Confirmation of Ekeler's Week 8 playing status will arrive upon the release of the Chargers' inactive list prior to Sunday's 4:05 p.m. ET kickoff.

Coach hopeful regarding status

Coach Brandon Staley relayed Friday that he's hopeful Ekeler (hip) will be able to play Sunday against the Patriots.

Analysis: Staley noted that Ekeler felt a little bit sore after a strong effort at Wednesday's practice, so the Chargers held the running back out of the team's past two sessions. On the plus side, Staley indicated that Ekeler is feeling better at this stage. While that sounds promising, for now Ekeler -- who is officially listed as questionable -- can be considered a game-day call in advance of Sunday's 4:05 p.m. ET kickoff. If he's limited or out versus New England, added Week 8 backfield touches would…read more

Questionable after another DNP

Ekeler (hip) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Patriots after missing practice both Thursday and Friday.

Analysis: We'll look for added clarity with regard to Ekeler's status as the Chargers' 4:05 p.m. ET kickoff approaches, and ideally NFL insiders such as Adam Schefter and Ian Rapoport will have added context to report by late Saturday night or early Sunday morning. If Ekeler ends up out or limited versus New England, Justin Jackson, Joshua Kelley and Larry Rountree would be in line for added Week 8 backfield opportunities.

Not spotted at practice Friday

Ekeler (hip) remained sidelined at practice Friday, Jeff Miller of the Los Angeles Times reports.

Analysis: Ekeler was added to the Chargers' Week 8 injury report Thursday after missing practice, and his absence from Friday's session clouds his status for Sunday's game against the Patriots. The team's upcoming injury report will reveal the running back's official injury designation, but if Ekeler ends up out or limited this weekend, Joshua Kelley, Justin Jackson and Larry Rountree would be in line for added snaps and touches.

Added to injury report Thursday

Ekeler didn't practice Thursday due to a hip issue.

Analysis: Ekeler, who wasn't listed on Wednesday's injury report, was the only Charger not to practice Thursday, so his status now is worth monitoring closely as Sunday's 4:05 p.m. ET game against the Patriots approaches. Next up for the team's backfield touches should Ekeler be out or limited this weekend are Joshua Kelley, Justin Jackson and Larry Rountree.

No running room against Ravens

Ekeler rushed six times for seven yards and caught four of seven targets for 48 yards in Sunday's 34-6 loss to Baltimore.

Analysis: The Ravens managed to keep Ekeler and the rest of the Chargers in check, as Justin Herbert failed to reach 200 passing yards and no running back rushed for more than seven. Los Angeles' upcoming Week 7 bye will give Ekeler and company a chance to regroup, and the diminutive yet powerful running back should bounce back afterwards given his substantial role as both a rusher and a pass-catcher out of the backfield.

Ties career high with three TDs

Ekeler carried the ball 17 times for 66 yards and two touchdowns while also securing five targets for 53 yards and an additional score in Sunday's thrilling 47-42 win over the Browns. He also fumbled twice, losing one.

Analysis: Ekeler didn't put together a stellar yard-per-carry figure, but he was a verifiable star in the red zone, wrestling, churning and fighting for every yard in all three of his touchdowns, each of which came within 20 yards of paydirt. After a bit of dud Week 1 in which Ekeler saw just 15 carries, the multi-talented running back is averaging close to 19 touches and 121.5 total yards over the last four games. An uber-efficient Chargers offense has afforded the 26-year-old plenty of opportunities…read more

Stellar in Monday's win

Ekeler rushed 15 times for 117 yards and a touchdown, and caught three of five targets for 28 yards and another touchdown, in Monday night's 28-14 win over the Raiders.

Analysis: Ekeler's dynamic, dual-threat ability was on display, as he ran well between the tackles, showed shiftiness in the open field and caught the ball out of the backfield. The veteran's first score came on a 14-yard wheel route in the second quarter, then Ekeler powered his way to an 11-yard touchdown rush in the fourth. The versatile tailback has now topped 100 scrimmage yards in three straight games, with Monday's performance comfortably marking his best of the campaign thus far. With four TDs in…read more

Another productive day

Ekeler carried the ball 11 times for 55 yards and also caught all six of his targets for 52 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 30-24 win over the Chiefs.

Analysis: The dynamic back has either eclipsed 100 total yards or scored a touchdown in every game this season. After a Week 1 outing in which he failed to log a target, the 26-year-old now has 15 targets in the last two weeks combined. Perhaps even more encouraging for fantasy managers, Ekeler didn't even have passes schemed his way, instead crafting yardage out of repeated checkdowns from Justin Herbert. The Chargers are averaging 42 pass attempts per game thus far this season, which means Ekeler…read more

Totals 115 yards

Ekeler recorded nine carries for 54 yards and also caught all nine of his targets for 61 yards in Sunday's 20-17 loss to the Cowboys.

Analysis: It wasn't exactly a healthy workload on the ground, but Ekeler did manage to outcarry Justin Jackson and Larry Rountree by a combined nine to five margin. It was encouraging to see the talented pass catcher get involved through the passing game, picking up a critical 20-yard catch down the left sideline that sent Ekeler to the injury tent before emerging later in the contest. The 26-year-old hasn't exactly been the type of featured back some assumed would occur in the Joe Lombardi system, but…read more

Scores touchdown in season debut

Ekeler (hamstring) carried the ball 15 times for 57 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-16 win over Washington.

Analysis: Notably, Ekeler wasn't even targeted in this contest as quarterback Justin Herbert rarely saw enough pressure to force any checkdowns. Considering the running back was listed as questionable heading into Sunday's contest after a mid-week hamstring injury, fantasy managers still have to be happy with Ekeler's explosiveness, particularly after contact. The Chargers notably used a plethora of two-back sets with Larry Rountree mixing into the rotation, so any hopes of Ekeler having a monopoly on…read more

Active for season opener

Ekeler (hamstring) is listed as active for Sunday's game against Washington.

Analysis: After missing practice Wednesday and Thursday, Ekeler looked good upon his return to the field Friday and he'll give it a go Sunday, with Ian Rapoport of NFL Network indicating that the running back should be full-go versus Washington. In the process, Ekeler is in line to head to the Chargers' ground game in Week 1, with Justin Jackson and Larry Rountree on hand to work in complementary/change-of-pace roles.

Expected to play Sunday

Ekeler (hamstring) is on track to suit up Sunday against Washington, barring any pregame setbacks, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Though Ekeler missed practice Wednesday and Thursday, he looked good in his return Friday and is trending toward being able to go in Week 1. Confirmation of the status of the Chargers' top back will arrive before the first wave of games Sunday, with the team kicking off at 1:00 ET.

Optimism regarding Sunday's status

Coach Brandon Staley noted Friday that he's optimistic Ekeler (hamstring) will play in Sunday's season opener against Washington, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Ekeler's return to practice in a limited fashion Friday initially offered hope that he'd have a chance to suit up this weekend after not practicing Wednesday or Thursday. Now things are looking up even more, after Staley relayed that the running back "looked good out there" during the team's final practice session of the week. With that, Ekeler appears to be heading in the right direction as Sunday's 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff approaches.

Questionable for Week 1

Ekeler (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's season opener against Washington after returning to a limited practice Friday, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: We'll look for added context with regard to Ekeler's Week 1 status leading up to the contest, but fortunately for those considering the running back in fantasy lineups, the Chargers kick off at 1:00 p.m. ET on Sunday. In the event that he's limited or out this weekend, Justin Jackson, Joshua Kelley and Larry Rountree are next up for the team's backfield touches.

Spotted at practice

Ekeler (hamstring) participated in the media-access portion of Friday's practice, Gilbert Manzano of The Orange County Register reports.

Analysis: Ekeler logged back-to-back DNPs to start the week, so his presence on the field Friday is encouraging. The Chargers' final Week 1 injury report will reveal the running back's participation level as well what, if any, injury designation he will carry into Sunday's season opener against Washington.

Logs another missed practice

Ekeler (hamstring) was officially listed as a non-participant in Thursday's practice.

Analysis: Back-to-back DNPs set the stage for Friday's practice to be pivotal with regard to Ekeler's chances of suiting up for Sunday's game against Washington. If the Chargers' top back is limited or out this weekend, added opportunities would be available for some combo of Justin Jackson, Joshua Kelley and Larry Rountree.

Not taking part in individual drills

Though Ekeler (hamstring) suited up for practice Thursday, he didn't participate in individual drills during the media-access portion of the session, Gilbert Manzano of The Orange County Register reports.

Analysis: Ekeler was listed as a non-participant in Wednesday's practice, so his presence on the field Thursday appears to support the notion that his hamstring issue isn't a major concern. That said, added context -- specifically, the running back's official participation level -- regarding his Week 1 status will arrive once the Chargers' second injury report of the week is submitted.

Hamstring injury being downplayed

The Chargers are optimistic that Ekeler's hamstring injury won't prevent him from playing in Sunday's season opener at Washington, Doug Kyed of Pro Football Focus reports.

Analysis: Ekeler made a surprise appearance on the Chargers' first official injury report of 2021, as the hamstring injury resulted in him working out on the side with triners at Wednesday's practice rather than taking part in team drills. Based on Kyed's report, the Chargers' decision to hold Ekeler out of practice may have been precautionary to some degree, though the fact that the running back missed six games in 2020 due to the same injury isn't the most encouraging sign. Ultimately, the extent of…read more

Dealing with hamstring issue

Ekeler was listed as a non-participant in Wednesday's practice due to a hamstring injury, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: While an absence from practice with a new injury isn't an optimal way for the Chargers' top back to start the week, he still has two more chances to return to field in advance of Sunday's game versus Washington. If Ekeler is out or limited this weekend, more work would be available for Justin Jackson, Joshua Kelley and Larry Rountree.

Working out on side at practice

Ekeler worked off to the side with trainers during the open portion of Wednesday's practice, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Further context with regard to the extent of Ekeler's activity will arrive once the Chargers submit their official injury report later Wednesday. Added reps will be available for fellow running backs Justin Jackson, Joshua Kelley and Larry Rountree for any amount of practice time Ekeler misses.

Sitting out preseason

Coach Brandon Staley said Ekeler and other key starters won't play this preseason, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Among those named on the offensive side of the ball were Justin Herbert and Keenan Allen, meaning we won't see the Chargers' first-team offense intact until Week 1. The decision is an interesting one, as Staley clearly isn't comfortable getting to the regular season with one of the trio in street clothes. When it comes to Ekeler in particular, he missed six games during the 2020 campaign due to lower-body injuries, but he still accumulated 933 yards from scrimmage and three TDs on 170 touches…read more

Set up for career year?

Ekeler could in position for a massive season in offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi's system, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Considering the type of player Alvin Kamara developed into under coach Lombardi's system in New Orleans, it's entirely possible the ultra-versatile Ekeler could be an even more prominent weapon, especially if the team opts to motion the running back out wide more often (Kamara finished the 2020 season with the second-most outside WR snaps of any RB, and fourth-most slot snaps). A Grade 2 hamstring strain ultimately cost Ekeler six games last season, but even before the injury, Ekeler was far…read more

Suffers concussion Sunday

Ekeler won't return to Sunday's game at Kansas City due to a concussion.

Analysis: Ekeler took a hit to the helmet near the end of the first half, which resulted in a concussion and an end to his fourth year as a pro. He sat out Weeks 5 through 11 due to a Grade 2 hamstring strain and a hyperextended knee. Despite making just 10 appearances this season, Ekeler averaged 4.6 YPC en route to 530 yards on the ground, hauled in 54 of 66 targets for 403 yards and scored three touchdowns. Per 16 games, his line equates to 1,493 yards from scrimmage and 4.8 TDs, so he should be a…read more

Finds end zone in win

Ekeler carried the ball 10 times for 45 yards and caught all three of his targets for 23 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 19-16 win over the Broncos.

Analysis: He accounted for the Chargers' only TD of the afternoon in the second quarter on a nine-yard toss from Justin Herbert, helping the quarterback set a new NFL rookie record for touchdown passes in a season. Despite the score -- his first since returning to action in Week 12 -- Ekeler otherwise had his second straight fairly quiet performance, and he's seen only seven targets over the last two games combined, limiting his production. He'll look to finish the season on a high note in Week 17…read more

Garners 79 total yards in win

Ekeler (quadriceps) rushed 13 times for 60 yards and secured all four targets for 19 yards in the Chargers' 30-27 overtime win over the Raiders on Thursday night.

Analysis: Ekeler still paced the Chargers backfield in rushing despite entering the game nursing the quadriceps injury, although he frequently had trouble finding running room against a Raiders defense that limited him to 33 yards on 12 carries outside of his team-high 27-yard rush. Ekeler also made his usual solid contributions through the air, recording multiple receptions for the fourth time in as many games since returning from a stint on injured reserve. However, it's worth noting Ekeler's…read more

Active for Thursday's game

Ekeler (quad) is listed as active for Thursday night's game against the Raiders.

Analysis: Assuming no in-game setbacks, Ekeler is in line to continue to head the Los Angeles backfield Thursday, with Kalen Ballage and Joshua Kelley in reserve. In the team's 20-17 win over the Falcons this past Sunday, Ekeler logged 15 carries for 79 yards and caught all nine of his targets for 67 yards. With the Chargers' wideout corps banged up Thursday, look for Ekeler to continue to provide fantasy value in Week 15, thanks to his utility as a pass-catcher.

Expected to play Thursday

Ekeler (quad) is expected to play Thursday night against the Raiders, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The report adds that wideouts Keenan Allen (hamstring) and Mike Williams (back) are viewed as game-time decisions for the contest. Either way, Ekeler's status will be confirmed upon the release of the Chargers' inactives prior to Thursday's 8:20 ET kickoff. Assuming he suits up, Ekeler would be in line to continue to head the team's Week 15 backfield, with Kalen Ballage and Justin Jackson in reserve.

Questionable for Thursday

Ekeler (quadriceps) is listed as questionable for Thursday's game against the Raiders after being listed as a limited participant on Tuesday's and Wednesday's estimated practice reports, Gilbert Manzano of The Orange County Register reports.

Analysis: Along with Ekeler, the Chargers are also listing receivers Keenan Allen (hamstring) and Mike Williams (back) as questionable, with the trio's Week 15 status set to be confirmed upon the release of the inactive list approximately 90 minutes prior to Thursday's 8:20 p.m. ET kickoff. At this stage, Ekeler's absence Thursday would be a surprise, but if does end up sitting out, Kalen Ballage and Justin Jackson would be the next men up in the backfield.

Upgrades to limited

Ekeler (quadriceps) was limited on Tuesday's estimated injury report.

Analysis: The Chargers have yet to hold practice this week, but Ekeler's upgrade from DNP on Monday to LP on Tuesday bodes well for his availability for Week 15. Wednesday's injury report will reveal whether he's clear of his quad issue or carries an injury designation into Thursday's contest at Las Vegas.

Non-participant on practice estimate

Ekeler (quad) was listed as a non-participant on Monday's practice estimate.

Analysis: Ekeler was one of 12 players listed as DNP by the Chargers, so it won't be until the team takes the field for a standard practice that we'll get a handle on which players are in any danger of missing Thursday night's game against the Raiders. He logged 44 of a possible 73 snaps on offense in Sunday's 20-17 win over the Falcons, en route to carrying 15 times for 79 yards and catching all nine of his targets for 67 yards. Next up for backfield touches if he's limited at all or out Week 15 are…read more

Tops 140 total yards

Ekeler carried the ball 15 times for 79 yards and also caught all nine of his targets for 67 yards in the 20-17 win Sunday over the Falcons.

Analysis: The Chargers relied heavily on a variety of different screens fairly early in the contest, allowing Ekeler to rack up the targets. A mundane offensive approach didn't really corral the speedy back, but it definitely hampered the team's ability to score as the Chargers were in the red zone just twice all afternoon. Since returning from a six-game absence, Ekeler has immediately returned to his featured role with Kalen Ballage essentially operating as the obvious run-only spell back. Expect more…read more

Usage wanes in blowout

Ekeler carried eight times for 36 yards and caught four of nine targets for 32 yards during Sunday's 45-0 loss to the Patriots.

Analysis: Ekeler averaged a respectable 4.5 yards per carry but saw his carries limited by the surprising blowout nature of the game. Although he tied for second on the team in targets, he hauled in less than half the balls thrown his way and saw his output limited in that regard as well. Ekeler was coming off an excellent performance in his previous outing and will look to bounce back next Sunday in what could be a high-scoring game against the Falcons.

Explosive in return from injury

Ekeler (hamstring) carried the ball 14 times for 44 yards and also caught 11 of his 16 targets for 85 yards in the 27-17 loss Sunday to the Bills.

Analysis: It quickly became apparent the pre-game report suggesting Ekeler would not be the team's bell-cow was misinformed as the talented back was the main catalyst on the team's first scoring drive of the game. It's hard to imagine the Chargers planned to give Ekeler a whopping 16 targets in his first game back after a nearly two-month absence, but an early deficit essentially forced a pass-heavy game script for most of the contest. A seven-carry advantage over backup Joshua Kelley mimicked the type…read more

May not fill true bell-cow role

Ekeler (hamstring) is active for Sunday's game against the Bills, but the Chargers aren't planning on him filling a bell-cow role while he dresses for the first time since Week 4, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Though Ekeler is believed to be fully healthy again after missing two months with the serious hamstring injury, he only resumed practicing with the Chargers this week. With that in mind, the Chargers may be inclined to take a cautious approach with the 25-year-old, who played 65.1 percent of the team's offensive snaps and averaged 21 touches over his first three outings of the season before getting hurt. Top backup Kalen Ballage (ankle/calf) is inactive Sunday, so Joshua Kelley or Troymaine…read more

Could share work in return

Ekeler (hamstring) will play in Sunday's game against the Bills after being activated from injured reserve, but the Chargers aren't expecting him to fill a bell-cow role in his first game since Week 4, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Though Ekeler is believed to be fully healthy again after missing two months with the serious hamstring injury, he only resumed practicing with the Chargers this week. With that in mind, the Chargers may be inclined to take a cautious approach with the 25-year-old, who played 65.1 percent of the team's offensive snaps and averaged 21 touches over his first three outings of the season before getting hurt. Top backup Kalen Ballage (ankle/calf) is viewed as game-time decision for Sunday, so Joshua…read more

Moves off injured reserve

Ekeler (hamstring) was activated off injured reserve Saturday.

Analysis: This is an incredibly encouraging development, but coach Anthony Lynn hasn't exactly been adamant Ekeler would play even if he was activated. Perhaps accelerating the timeline is the status of Kalen Ballage (ankle), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game but only managed to practice in a limited fashion at any point throughout the week. Expect more clarity regarding Ekeler's playing time to emerge sometime in the lead-up to Sunday's 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff.

May return Sunday

Coach Anthony Lynn said Ekeler (hamstring) has "a chance" to be activated from injured reserve before Sunday's game at Buffalo, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: The Chargers opened Ekeler's 21-day practice window this week, indicating he was close to completing his recovery from a left hamstring injury suffered Week 4. He's missed six games as a result, and the team will need to make a decision on whether or not he'll miss a seventh by Saturday afternoon. Even if he's able to play Sunday, it'll be interesting to see the breakdown of reps out of the backfield. Kalen Ballage (ankle) is questionable for the contest, so Ekeler has a chance to retake the…read more

Set to resume practicing

Ekeler (hamstring) is slated to practice Wednesday after the Chargers designated him to return from injured reserve, Jeff Miller of the Los Angeles Times reports.

Analysis: The Chargers will have a 21-day window to place the running back on their active roster. Though his imminent return to work is a positive development, coach Anthony Lynn isn't sure at this stage if Ekeler will suit up Sunday against the Bills. With Justin Jackson (knee) on IR, Kalen Ballage has headed the Los Angeles backfield over the past three games.

Will practice this week

The Chargers will designate Ekeler (hamstring) to return from injured reserve this week, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Ekeler has been on injured reserve since suffering a severe hamstring injury in Week 4 against the Buccaneers. A return to practice this week means that the 25-year-old running back may be ready to play in this Sunday's game against the Bills, although the team is still being coy about his timeline. His 21-day evaluation window to be activated from IR will begin once Ekeler takes the practice field with his teammates.

Week 12 return expected

Daniel Popper of The Athletic expects Ekeler (hamstring/knee) to return in Week 12.

Analysis: Ekeler has progressed to straight-line running in his recovery and, barring a setback, could be back in two weeks against the Bills. A Week 12 return would represent an eight-week layoff since the running back got hurt against the Buccaneers in Week 4. With fellow RB Justin Jackson (knee) also sidelined, Troymaine Pope (neck), Joshua Kelley and practice squad call-up Kalen Ballage should continue to split reps in the Chargers backfield while Ekeler recovers.

Progresses to running

Ekeler (hamstring/knee) has progressed to straight-line running, per the running back's personal Instagram.

Analysis: Ekeler has been sidelined since suffering a Grade 2 hamstring strain and hyperextended knee in his left leg Week 4. Expected to be sidelined 4-to-6 weeks, the latter end of that timetable coincides with this Sunday, but the Chargers have yet to open his 21-day window to be activated from IR. Still, because Ekeler noted "the time draws near" in his social media post, he appears to be closing in on his return to action.

Not close to return

Coach Anthony Lynn said Wednesday that Ekeler (hamstring) will be back "later rather than sooner," Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Ekeler remains without an official timetable to return from his hamstring injury, which Lynn called "very serious." The versatile running back is eligible to return from injured reserve as soon as the Chargers' Week 8 matchup in Denver, but Lynn's comments hint that Ekeler is likely trending toward a return at the latter end of his estimated 4-to-6-week recovery period. In the meantime, Justin Jackson and Joshua Kelley will continue to spearhead Los Angeles' rushing attack.

Lands on IR

The Chargers placed Ekeler on injured reserve Friday.

Analysis: Ekeler will thus miss at least three games, meaning that he won't be back any sooner than the Chargers' Week 8 tilt against the Jaguars. That's of course a best-case scenario, and it's quite possible Ekeler remains on IR beyond that, given that original estimates pegged his anticipated recovery timetable in the 4-to-6-week range. In Ekeler's absence, Joshua Kelley and Justin Jackson will head the team's backfield, with one of Kalen Ballage, Troymaine Pope or Darius Bradwell a candidate to be…read more

Will miss at least one game

Coach Anthony Lynn confirmed Thursday that Ekeler (hamstring) is out for Monday night's game against the Saints, Gilbert Manzano of The Orange County Register reports.

Analysis: Lynn added that the Chargers haven't yet decided if Ekeler will be placed on IR, which implies that there's at least some hope that the running back could potentially beat the estimated four-to-six week timetable that was previously reported by Adam Schefter of ESPN. In Ekeler's absence, Joshua Kelley and Justin Jackson will head the team's backfield.

Expected to miss 4-to-6 weeks

Ekeler is expected to be sidelined 4-to-6 weeks due to a hamstring injury and a hyperextended knee, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports that Ekeler's hamstring issue is a Grade 2 strain. The every-down back will seek a second medical opinion, but at this time it looks like he'll be placed on IR and remain sidelined until at least November. In the meantime, Joshua Kelley and Justin Jackson will handle the bulk of Los Angeles' carries.

Likely for injured reserve

Ekeler is expected to land on IR after suffering a "serious" hamstring injury during Sunday's loss to the Buccaneers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Rapoport notes that the Chargers won't finalize any decisions until the full results of Ekeler's medical evaluation have been revealed, but at this point it would be surprising to see the do-it-all running back avoid a multi-game absence. Though Ekeler may need to spend more than the three-week minimum on IR, it looks like he's expected to make a return later during the regular season. In the meantime, Los Angeles will roll with Joshua Kelley and Justin Jackson out of the backfield, while…read more

In line for multi-game absence

Ekeler is slated to miss multiple weeks due to the hamstring injury and hyperextended knee that he suffered during Sunday's 38-31 defeat at Tampa Bay, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: In the wake of a first-quarter hit, Ekeler was in significant pain and couldn't put any weight on his left leg in his attempts to get off the field. He required a cart to get to the locker room and didn't make another appearance, and after the game he needed crutches and was wearing a brace on the leg. Looking ahead, the Chargers play five more games before a Week 10 bye, so there isn't a respite for Ekeler in the immediate future. In the meantime, the team will need to make due with Joshua…read more

Dealing with hamstring injury

When asked about the hamstring injury Ekeler suffered in Sunday's loss to the Buccaneers, coach Anthony Lynn replied "I'm not sure how bad it is, but it looked pretty bad," Gilbert Manzano of The Orange County Register reports.

Analysis: It's too soon to know how much, if any, further game action Ekeler might miss, but his status for next Monday's contest against the Saints will obviously need to be monitored closely, based on Lynn's post-game comments. Joshua Kelley and Justin Jackson are next up for the Chargers' carries if Ekeler is limited or out in Week 5.

Injury-shortened day in loss

Ekeler rushed twice for 12 yards and brought in his one target for two yards in the Chargers' 38-31 loss to the Buccaneers before exiting for good in the first quarter due to a hamstring injury.

Analysis: The versatile veteran had gotten off to a solid start on the ground before being felled by his left hamstring injury. Given the delicate and unpredictable nature of soft-tissue injuries, Ekeler's availability for a Week 5 Monday night road matchup against the Saints likely will be up in the air for a significant portion of the upcoming week.

Picks up hamstring injury

Ekeler is questionable to return to Sunday's game in Tampa Bay due to a hamstring injury.

Analysis: Considering Ekeler couldn't put any weight on his left leg, it's somewhat of a surprise that he may be able to reenter the Chargers' Week 4 contest. Having said that, however long Ekeler is sidelined, some combination of Joshua Kelley and Justin Jackson will cover for him out of the backfield.

Needs cart to get off field

Ekeler (leg) was carted off the field during Sunday's game at Tampa Bay, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Ekeler was in significant pain and was unable to put any weight on his left leg after taking a first-quarter hit along the Chargers' sideline. The training staff looked at his left foot before taking him to the locker room. In Ekeler's stead, L.A. will count on Joshua Kelley and Justin Jackson to man the backfield.

Totals 139 yards in loss

Ekeler carried the ball 12 times for 59 yards and also caught all 11 of his targets for 80 yards in Sunday's 21-16 loss to the Panthers. He also accounted for a touchdown.

Analysis: It should have been an even better day for Ekeler, but the running back botched a hook-and-ladder attempt which would have resulted in a walk-in, game-winning touchdown. After a Week 1 which saw the star back record just one target, the Chargers have made a concerted effort to include Ekeler in the passing game with 15 targets over the past two weeks. Most of that workload came Sunday with the team trailing from the jump, though the 11 targets weren't simply off of checkdowns or dump-offs but…read more

Piles up yardage in OT loss

Ekeler carried the ball 16 times for 93 yards and caught all four of his targets for 55 yards in Sunday's 23-20 overtime loss to Kansas City.

Analysis: While it was an impressive performance for Ekeler, it could have been bigger -- quarterback Justin Herbert ran in a four-yard TD while Joshua Kelley also topped the century mark in scrimmage yards on 25 touches. The Chargers' backfield increasingly looks like a 1A/1B arrangement rather than Ekeler being entrusted with lead duties, but that could still lead to big numbers for both backs in Week 3 against a Panthers run defense that's already been lit up by Josh Jacobs and Leonard Fournette this…read more

Receiving opportunities limited?

Coach Anthony Lynn suggested Ekeler could see his pass-catching opportunities limited thanks to the team's new offensive scheme, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Lynn more or less reinforced what occurred Sunday, which saw the offense trade quick and concise checkdowns to the running back for more pocket-moving maneuvers and additional pass protection. It's hard to imagine any offensive scheme that limits last year's near 1,000-yard receiver is a particularly good one, but Lynn did make it a point to say he still wants to give the shifty back touches. It's true that Ekeler carried the ball 19 times and was largely effective in that capacity, but…read more

Efficient runner in win

Ekeler carried the ball 19 times for 84 yards in Sunday's 16-13 win over the Bengals. He caught his lone target for three yards.

Analysis: On the one hand, it was excellent to see Ekeler command nearly 20 carries in a contest that was close throughout. The 25-year-old's longest carry was only 13 yards, yet he was still able to consistently churn out yardage to the tune of 4.4 yards per carry. Still, it has to be a little troubling for fantasy managers considering Ekeler's lack of influence in the passing game, particularly after a 2019 season in which he piled up 92 receptions and almost 1,000 receiving yards. To make matters…read more

Looking strong

Ekeler has shown impressive strength at training camp, holding his own in drills against linebackers, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Ekeler may have a reputation as a scatback, but he's listed at a respectable 200 pounds and owns a career average of 4.8 yards per carry. He's in good position to build on last year's career high 132 carries, now sharing a backfield with Justin Jackson and Joshua Kelley instead of Melvin Gordon. That's not to say Ekeler will be a 20-carry-a-game workhorse, but he does have some chance to match his volume from Weeks 1-4 last season -- 14.0 carries, 6.0 catches per game -- when Gordon was holding…read more

Locked up by Chargers

The Chargers have signed Ekeler to a four-year, $24.5 million contract, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Ekeler's contract reportedly includes $15 million in guarantees. The dynamic dual threat was scheduled to become a restricted free agent this offseason, but the Chargers have opted to lock him up for the foreseeable future rather than simply bring him back on a one-year basis. The 24-year-old proved his every-down potential by shouldering the load during the first four games of the 2019 season before Melvin Gordon's holdout came to an end, a span during which he compiled 220 rushing yards and…read more

Crosses 1,500 scrimmage yards

Ekeler carried the ball nine times for 46 yards and caught nine of 11 targets for 43 yards in Sunday's loss to the Chiefs,

Analysis: While Ekeler was seven yards short of joining just a handful of running backs to record 1,000 receiving yards in a season, it was nevertheless a banner year for the third-year pro as he finished the 2019 campaign with 557 rushing yards, 993 receiving yards and 11 total touchdowns. The 24-year-old proved that he could be an every-down back in his short stint as the starter to open 2019 while Melvin Gordon was holding out, but it's unclear whether the Chargers will operate with that same mindset…read more

Productive despite loss

Ekeler carried the ball four times for 11 yards and also registered five receptions for 58 yards in the 24-17 loss Sunday to the Raiders.

Analysis: While Ekeler is well off his career pace of 5.3 yards per carry, the diminutive running back has a slim opportunity to become just the third running back since 1985 to record over 1,000 receiving yards in a single season. The 24-year-old is likely to finish the campaign with over 1,400 scrimmage yards, and Ekeler continues to be one of the better bargains of the 2019 fantasy season relative to his August draft value.

Totals 81 scrimmage yards

Ekeler carried seven times for 19 yards and caught five of seven targets for an additional 62 yards during Sunday's 39-10 loss to the Vikings.

Analysis: Ekeler did next to nothing on the ground, but he came through with his usual impactful performance as a receiver. He tied for second on the team in receptions while finishing third in targets and receiving yards. Ekeler is now nearing 1,400 scrimmage yards for the season and continues to thrive despite playing behind Melvin Gordon. He should be expected to get double-digit touches next Sunday against the Raiders and will look to continue his efficiency against a vulnerable defense.

Career-best performance Sunday

Ekeler carried the ball eight times for 101 yards and caught four of five targets for 112 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 45-10 rout of the Jaguars.

Analysis: The 213 scrimmage yards were a career high for the third-year running back, and Ekeler also helped Philip Rivers set a new personal best when he took a short pass early in the third quarter and raced 84 yards to the end zone -- the longest TD pass of the veteran quarterback's career. Ekeler is now 170 receiving yards shy of 1,000 for the year, but he'll have a much tougher matchup in Week 15 when the Chargers host the Vikings.

Finds paydirt

Ekeler carried the ball nine times for 16 yards and also added four receptions for 51 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Broncos.

Analysis: Ekeler was once again a weapon in the passing game, taking a 30-yard wheel route to the house for the Chargers' first touchdown of the game. While Melvin Gordon was the featured back on the ground once again (20 carries, 99 yards), Ekeler still saw nine carries of his own, making it just the second time since Week 5 against the Broncos --- Gordon's de facto 2019 debut --- in which the third-year back saw seven or more carries. It's possible Ekeler could see a step back in receiving…read more

Big receiving game versus Chiefs

Ekeler rushed five times for 24 yards and caught eight of 11 targets for 108 yards in Monday night's 24-17 loss to the Chiefs.

Analysis: Ekeler was handed nine fewer carries than Melvin Gordon, but totaled 42 more scrimmage yards thanks to a superb effort in the passing game. The tailback caught a 37-yard reception on the Chargers' first offensive drive and was routinely targeted on underneath routes afterward. Overall, he easily led the team in receiving yards and tied Keenan Allen for the high in grabs, sending him into the bye week on a good note individually.

Gets in end zone through air

Ekeler rushed just six times for 19 yards and secured both of his targets for 29 yards and a touchdown in the Chargers' 26-24 loss to the Raiders on Thursday.

Analysis: As his final numbers indicate, Ekeler was held in check on the ground after a strong 12-carry, 70-yard performance versus the Packers just four days prior. However, the versatile back was able to notch a receiving touchdown for the third time in the last four games by snaring a fourth-quarter scoring toss from Philip Rivers, a catch that also helped him extend his season-long streak of multiple receptions to 10 contests. Ekeler will look to up his overall production when the Chargers face off…read more