Austin Ekeler has returned to a familiar spot, needing to prove himself once more after he left the team that drafted him to sign with the Washington Commanders. It's a role he's grown comfortable with during his career.
He also said being in this spot "energizes him."
"I've had everything to prove every single year," Ekeler said.
After spending seven seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers, Ekeler agreed to a two-year deal with Washington on the first day of the free agent negotiating period one week ago. He signed his deal at the Commanders' facility Monday morning.
The 2017 undrafted free agent worked his way from a special teams role into becoming a key part of the Chargers' offense. He went from 538 yards from scrimmage as a rookie to 1,550 by his third season. He scored a combined 38 touchdowns in 2021 and '22. He fell to 1,064 yards from scrimmage and six scores last season.
"It's what has given me energy for as long as I've been in the league," Ekeler said. "I 100% represent the underdogs out there. I'll continue to be that representation."
With Washington, Ekeler will serve as a third-down back with Brian Robinson Jr. expected to handle a heavier part of the run production. Ekeler said having Robinson here played a factor in his decision, knowing the burden would be shared. So, too, did reuniting with his former Chargers coach, Anthony Lynn, now Washington's run game coordinator and running backs coach.
And while he said he remains in prove-it mode, Ekeler remains confident in what he can still add.
"A lot. I'm going to score some touchdowns for you, that's for sure," he said. "I'm going to bring some energy."
