The Washington Commanders have secured the signing of veteran running back Austin Ekeler on a two-year contract valued at up to $11.43 million, which is intended to revitalize their struggling running game.
In this deal, the 28-year-old will receive a $3 million signing bonus and a total of $4.82 million, with an opportunity to earn an additional $1.5 million through incentives for the current season, as per league insider Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.
Ekeler, who has spent his entire career with the Los Angeles Chargers since being signed after going undrafted in 2017, expressed a desire for a trade when contract negotiations with the franchise reached an impasse last year.
The former Western Colorado player will reunite with the Washington Commanders' running backs coach, Anthony Lynn, who formerly served as the head coach of the Chargers from 2017 to 2020.
Austin Ekeler remained with the Chargers for one more season
Despite the initial trade request, he ultimately remained with the team after agreeing to a restructured one-year deal.
In 14 regular season games in the 2023 season, Ekeler demonstrated his versatility by rushing 179 times for 628 yards and five touchdowns. Additionally, he made 51 receptions for 436 yards and scored once.
Ekeler, renowned for finding the end zone, is a valuable addition for the Commanders. Historically struggling in the red zone, the team has made a prudent move to complement incoming third-year player Brian Robinson in the running back position.
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