Austin Ekeler has had a unique journey to the NFL.
In 2017, he went undrafted out of Western Colorado University and worked his way onto the field from the Los Angeles Chargers practice squad. However, this past season he has proved to everyone that he is a solid running back in the league and now has a big contract to back it up.
According to Ian Rapoport, the Los Angeles Chargers and running back Austin Ekeler have agreed to a four-year, $24.5 million deal, which includes $15 million in guaranteed money.
Ekeler exploded onto the scene for the Chargers thanks to a hold-out from star running back Melvin Gordon, who Ekeler had backed up for his first two seasons. Last season, Ekeler tallied 557 rushing yards, 993 receiving yards, and 11 total touchdowns. He also finished 10th in the league in total receptions with 92 for the year, which is impressive for most wide receivers, let alone a running back.
Ekeler’s big contract extension does complicate things for fellow back Melvin Gordon, who is hoping for a contract around $15 dollars per year this offseason. Unfortunately, the Chargers won’t be able to pay this kind of money to another rusher, so it looks like Gordon will be moving on.
