Austin Ekeler’s enduring fantasy relevance hinges on his consistent dual-threat ability, making him a reliable asset for fantasy football managers, especially in PPR (Points Per Reception) formats. Despite entering his age-30 season with the Washington Commanders, Ekeler’s skill set and well-defined role within Kliff Kingsbury’s offense solidify his value. After a productive tenure with the Los Angeles Chargers, Ekeler looks to continue his impact in Washington.
Ekeler’s Fantasy Football Resurgence
Following a move to the Washington Commanders after the 2023 season, Austin Ekeler experienced a notable resurgence in 2024. According to reports, he averaged 4.8 yards per carry, a significant improvement from his 3.5 yards per carry in 2023. Across 12 games last season, Ekeler amassed 733 total yards and four touchdowns, finishing as RB29 in fantasy points per game despite missing five games due to concussions. As Week 1 of the 2025 season approaches, Ekeler is listed as the Commanders’ No. 1 running back on the depth chart and is projected to score 10.9 points in PPR formats against the New York Giants, per FantasyPros.
Factors Driving Ekeler’s Consistency
Dual-Threat Prowess
Ekeler’s consistency stems from his well-rounded skill set. His dual-threat capability as both a runner and a receiver remains intact, allowing him to contribute significantly in multiple facets of the game. This is particularly valuable in PPR leagues, where his receiving ability provides a stable floor, as receiving ability tends to age more gracefully than rushing ability for running backs.
Goal-Line Efficiency
Ekeler possesses exceptional goal-line prowess. Sharp Football Analysis notes that he ranks third among all running backs with 27 touchdowns inside the five-yard line since 2021, converting at an impressive 56% clip. This knack for finding the end zone further enhances his fantasy value, providing a reliable source of touchdowns.
Offensive System Fit
His experience and versatility are highly valued within Kliff Kingsbury’s offensive system, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding other backfield options. After expressing a desire for a more balanced workload rather than a “bellcow” role, his move to Washington allowed him to return to a “satellite back” role, which contributed to his improved efficiency.
Impact of Team Changes
Offensive Line Improvements
The Commanders’ offensive line has seen improvements with the additions of left tackle Laremy Tunsil and first-round tackle Josh Conerly Jr., which are expected to create better running lanes in 2025. According to NFL.com, these additions should provide Ekeler with more opportunities to exploit running lanes and increase his rushing production.
Backfield Competition
The trade of Brian Robinson Jr. to the San Francisco 49ers has further solidified Ekeler’s opportunities in the backfield. While rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt has generated some preseason buzz, Ekeler’s established role and pass-catching ability give him the edge in terms of consistent playing time and high-value touches.
Fantasy Football Implications
Current Role and Projections
For fantasy managers, Ekeler remains a viable and consistent option, often viewed as an RB3 or FLEX play, especially in PPR leagues. Despite some preseason hype around rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Ekeler’s established role, pass-catching ability, and goal-line history offer multiple paths to production that his backfield mates may not match. His current Average Draft Position (ADP) often positions him as a “value pick” for those seeking reliable production at a lower cost.
Health and Workload
While he dealt with two concussions in 2024, these concerns appear to be resolved for the 2025 season. Ekeler is expected to handle a significant portion of the passing game work and high-value touches, solidifying his role in the Commanders’ offense. RotoBaller projects that Ekeler will see a significant target share in the passing game, further boosting his PPR value.
The Ekeler Edge
Austin Ekeler’s ability to consistently produce in fantasy football stems from his versatility, goal-line efficiency, and favorable role within the Commanders’ offense. Despite his age and the shifting landscape of the NFL, Ekeler’s dual-threat capabilities make him a reliable option for fantasy managers seeking consistent production at running back. Ekeler’s experience, combined with improvements in the Commanders’ offensive line, solidifies his position as a valuable asset in PPR formats, making him a smart pick for those looking for a dependable RB3 or FLEX player.
