The Washington Commanders have named Austin Ekeler their primary running back after trading Brian Robinson Jr. to the San Francisco 49ers, sparking concerns rooted in Ekeler running back concerns. This move comes as the Commanders aim to build on their recent success, but fans of Ekeler’s former team, the Los Angeles Chargers, remain skeptical about his ability to carry the load as a lead back.
Washington Commanders Make Ekeler Their Starting Running Back
On Friday, ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter reported the trade of Commanders’ starting running back Brian Robinson Jr. to the 49ers, clearing the way for Austin Ekeler to take the lead role in Washington’s backfield. Despite being a highly effective pass-catching running back, Ekeler has not historically been a workhorse ball carrier, raising questions about how this strategy will play out on the field.
The Commanders have additional backs like Bill Croskey-Merritt and Jeremy McNichols to share the workload, but Ekeler is expected to handle the majority of snaps this season. His performance history with his previous team, the Los Angeles Chargers, offers a mixed picture in this regard.
Examining Austin Ekeler’s Time with the Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers, still recovering from previous leadership decisions under Tom Telesco and Brandon Staley, had Austin Ekeler as their primary running back for multiple seasons before letting him leave in free agency. New management under Jim Harbaugh and Joe Hortiz opted to replace Ekeler with J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards, a move that coincided with an improved rushing attack and a return to the playoffs.
Ekeler’s rise from an undrafted Division II player to the Chargers’ lead running back made him a fan favorite, but his tenure as the focal point of the rushing game did not produce consistent team success. In seven seasons, he led the Chargers in touches five times. During those seasons, the team only experienced two winning campaigns and made the playoffs once.
Conversely, during the two years when Melvin Gordon served as the primary back, the Chargers posted two winning seasons and reached the playoffs. Moreover, after Ekeler’s departure, the Chargers improved their rushing attack and returned to postseason play immediately.
Role of Ekeler in Washington’s Recent Success and Future Outlook
In 2024, Ekeler played a supporting role behind Brian Robinson Jr., helping the Commanders achieve a 12-5 record and reach the NFC Championship game. He also earned recognition as an All-Pro Second-Team kick returner that year. This demonstrates Ekeler’s value as a dynamic rotational player, especially in pass-catching and special teams roles.
Despite these strengths, the concern remains that Washington’s decision to make Ekeler their primary running back may not yield long-term success based on prior evidence. Chargers fans, familiar with his limitations as a traditional lead back, are cautious about the Commanders’ reliance on him in this role.
While Ekeler offers versatility and skill in the passing game, the history of his usage in Los Angeles suggests that teams depending on him as a bellcow back rarely achieve sustained success. The Commanders’ investment in Ekeler signals their confidence, but they will likely need additional support in the backfield to maintain a winning formula.