After spending one season with the Washington Commanders, the veteran running back Austin Ekeler could be cut before the 2025 regular season begins. According to Bleacher Report, the source believes the Commanders may release Ekeler as the backup running back didn’t make an explosive impact, so it’s up in the air for what the team will do. While he has one year left on his contract, the Commanders could trade him since his 2024 performance wasn’t the worst, recording 77 carries for 367 rushing yards and four touchdowns to go along with 35 receptions for 366 receiving yards. Originally selected as an undrafted rookie in 2017, the former Western Colorado product began his journey with the Los Angeles Chargers, hoping to carve out a full-time role as a reliable starter.
However, he requested a trade in 2023, but ultimately stayed with the Chargers that year before deciding to test the market the following year. Ekeler didn’t like the snaps he was receiving in Los Angeles, and since a new culture was already being built under head coach Jim Harbaugh, it made sense for the veteran to part ways. The Commanders gave him a new opportunity to provide a veteran presence for quarterback Jayden Daniels. Now, Ekeler could enter the market again for another chance to sign with a team that could use another option with his pass-catching abilities and be a capable contributor to a roster’s ground game.
Breaking: Former Charger Austin Ekeler Could Be Cut, 4 Suitors Emerge
Possible Destinations
Los Angeles Chargers
Head Coach Jim Harbaugh wants to win games with a powerful run, so why not a reunion? It doesn’t have to be long-term, as 2025 draft pick Omarion Hampton is probably the future of this Chargers run game. Veteran Najee Harris will hope to at least carve out a backup role as he’s on for a one-year deal. However, Ekeler could do more than run the ball and could be another viable pass-catcher for quarterback Justin Herbert in crucial moments.
New Orleans Saints
Meanwhile, the New Orleans Saints were finally able to salvage their running back unit after signing Cam Akers to give support for star Alvin Kamara. After releasing Jamaal Williams, the Saints need more of a reliable veteran, and Ekeler is the better runner in this situation than Akers.
Dallas Cowboys
However, the Dallas Cowboys have one of the worst running back rooms in the league. Between Miles Sanders and Javonte Williams, it’s more of not if, but when the Cowboys are going to make a change to better support quarterback Dak Prescott. 2025 draft pick Jaydon Blue is the only possible difference maker that may make a change in this ground game. However, they need a real veteran who could at least hold it down and make an impact for at least one season, and that might be Ekeler, only if he becomes available on the market.
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens have a powerful offense led by a ferocious run game by Derrick Henry, but they need a solid backup plan. Keaton Mitchell hasn’t been living up to expectations, even though there is faith that he will have a better outcome this upcoming season. Ekeler might not be in the long-term plans, but he and running back Justice Hill pairing in screen situations could be what’s best for business in Baltimore.
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