RB Austin Ekeler (Los Angeles Chargers)
2020 PPR Ranking: 26
Offseason Changes
- Drafted Larry Rountree III in the 6th round of the 2021 NFL Draft
- Upgraded offensive line
- New Offensive Coordinator, Joe Lombardi
Projected Stats: 725 Rushing Yards, 790 Receiving Yards, 8 Total TD’s
2021 PPR Projected Ranking: 8
Embed from Getty ImagesOverall Outlook
Austin Ekeler has an opportunity to shine in this new offense under Coordinator, Joe Lombardi. He comes over from the New Orleans Saints where he helped Alvin Kamara become a PPR superstar. Not that Ekeler needs much help, but this won’t hurt him either. Provided he can stay healthy, 2021 can be Ekeler’s best year yet!
The Chargers bolstered their offensive line by adding one of the best centers in football, Corey Linsley. They also used their first-round pick on Rashawn Slater. This offense now has the chance to get even better this year.
Last season, Ekeler finished as RB26. He played in only ten games but when you look at what he did on a per-game basis, he was the 11th best RB. He averaged 13.8 points per game, down from his 16.4 points per game in 2019. He wasn’t the same, explosive back after that injury. When healthy in 2019, he finished the year as RB6.
Looking at what he has in store for 2021, you can’t help but be excited. The Chargers did draft a running back, Larry Rountree III, in the sixth round of the draft. Besides that, they don’t have much else to compete with Ekeler for carries. Kalen Ballage is gone, Joshua Kelley and Justin Jackson were less than stellar when they had their chance. This leaves Ekeler to receive the bulk of the carries which according to my projections is around 170.
We all know that Ekeler is known for his receiving work. He can catch over 90 balls this year with ease. There are very few teams that feature a back like this. As mentioned, Lombardi featured Kamara the same way I see him featuring Ekeler this year. If you want a guy that has guaranteed volume and no competition, make sure you draft Ekeler!
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