The Los Angeles Chargers know they have a big offseason ahead and have kicked things off by re-signing a key member of their backfield. No, not marquee free-agent Melvin Gordon, but instead the Chargers have agreed to an extension with running back Austin Ekeler. The Chargers announced the multi-year extension in a statement released on Friday. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Ekeler’s extension will be for four years and worth $24.5 million.
Chargers and restricted free-agent RB Austin Ekeler reached agreement on a four-year, $24.5 million deal that includes $15 million guaranteed, sources tell ESPN.@camRONweiss of @DynamicSportGrp and @Chargers’ EVP Ed McGuire have been negotiating the deal since early January.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 6, 2020
After Gordon held out to start last season in hopes of a new contract, Austin Ekeler developed into one of the most dynamic backs in the NFL through the first half of the campaign. Gordon still hasn’t gotten a deal from the Chargers and after Ekeler’s extension, him hitting the open free-agent market seems inevitable.
Ekeler was as impressive a pass-catcher as any back in the league last season, trailing only first-team All-Pro Christian McCaffery in receptions with 92 on the season. Ekeler compiled 993 receiving yards and 557 rushing yards in 16 games including 8 starts.
Prior to Gordon’s return, it was clear that Ekeler was more than capable of holding down a starting role. Though it remains to be seen whether he could be a full-time three-down running back for an entire season, there’s no doubt he’s a stellar pass-catcher out of the backfield.
Now with Ekeler locked in for the next four seasons, it likely means Gordon is on his way out. Gordon has himself been one of the more productive backs in the league over the past couple of years. Similar to Le’Veon Bell’s situation last offseason, Gordon will not only be the most sought after running back of this year’s free agency pool but will be one of the most talented players at any position to come available once free agency begins on March 16.
