Garrett Podell, CBS Sports Sports Research Editor, believes the Los Angeles Rams are one of the most likely landing spots for former Los Angeles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler.
According to Podell, “Ekeler could be a nice complement to the [Kyren Williams] punishing running style and add a versatility to head coach Sean McVay’s backfield as a receiver that could lighten Williams’ workload.”
Los Angeles Rams With Austin Ekeler At A Glance
A Versatile Back With Sean McVay
For much of his career, Ekeler has been equally dangerous rushing the ball as he is catching it. That is, until last year. From this vantage point, it is tough to determine whether last season was the Chargers’ dumpster fire season or if he is actually past his prime. Just a season ago in 2022, he rushed for 915 yards and received 722 yards.
McVay has not had a dual-threat running back since Todd Gurley’s peak. Williams was a strong receiver at Notre Dame, but McVay does not use him in that role. His 48 targets place him 23rd among running backs.
It’s been so long that it’s difficult to imagine a McVay offense featuring a pass-catching back. But the prospect of adding it is enticing.
Shared Workload
The Rams presently have three running backs on their roster: Williams, Ronnie Rivers, and sophomore Zach Evans. Both were on the roster last season, but Rivers averaged 3.5 carries per game, while Evans got nine carries in four games.
The main issue with this division of labor is Williams’ injury concerns. He missed four games last season and seven during his first season. So adding Ekeler to ‘lighten the workload’ is essential.
Ekeler would also profit from sharing responsibilities. Last season, the nearly 29-year-old played 66 percent of offensive snaps, which was a career best. Ekeler has similarly failed to stay on the field, having only appeared in one full season. Williams played 82 percent of snaps in games in which he appeared in 2023.
Contract Talk
The Rams have enough cap space to sign Austin Ekeler, but the organization has other priorities. Ekeler may desire one final big contract, but the Rams offer him the opportunity to play for a Super Bowl contender over the next two seasons.
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