The Washington Commanders have been one of the busiest teams in free agency so far, bringing in Tyler Biadasz, Frankie Luvu, Dorance Armstrong, Nick Allegretti, Zach Ertz, and Marcus Mariota.
They also got involved in the chaotic running back market, adding Chargers veteran Austin Ekeler to their backfield to pair with Brian Robinson on a 2-year, $11 million deal.
Their new running back shared a touching message on X detailing what Commanders fans are getting with their new running back.
“New city, same mindset. I took the stairs to get here. I wouldn’t have it any other way. Looking forward to year 8,” Ekeler said.
New city, same mindset. I took the stairs to get here. I wouldn’t have it any other way. Looking forward to year 8.
I hope my story can be proof that you can push yourself beyond what you thought capable. Keep stacking bricks, you might just surprise yourself with how much you… pic.twitter.com/hzwmu4yoHm
— Austin Ekeler (@AustinEkeler) March 12, 2024
In Kliff Kingsbury’s offense, Washington had to prioritize bringing in a pass-catching back after making little effort to retain Antonio Gibson.
Robinson is not much of a receiving threat, but Ekeler is, as he posted 8,239 scrimmage yards in his seven years with the Chargers including 440 receptions.
Ekeler endured some injuries in 2023 and only posted 1,064 total yards and six touchdowns on a career-low 3.5 yards per carry.
In 2021 and 2022, Ekeler scored a whopping 38 touchdowns and will look to get back to that level of production in this new offense.
Washington’s posted the NFL’s sixth-worst rushing attack in 2023, averaging just 93.6 yards per game.
The team has just seven 100-yard rushing performances in the past five years, including none in 2023.
Ekeler won’t be relied upon to churn out a ton of yardage between the tackles, but as an all-purpose back he will add an element to this offense that it hasn’t had in years.
Robinson collected 1,101 total yards and nine touchdowns in 2023 and will now have a strong veteran to lean on between the trenches.
The post Austin Ekeler Has Clear Message After Signing With Commanders appeared first on The Cold Wire.