The Washington Commanders have stood pat at the running back position this offseason. One analyst believes that could change at some stage during the 2025 NFL Draft.
Something that could also place one of the team's productive veterans on the trade block.
It's no secret that the ground game regressed over the second half of 2024 and into the playoffs. The Commanders were way too reliant on dynamic dual-threat quarterback Jayden Daniels for rushing yards. That's well within the player's capabilities, but it's not sustainable long-term.
All four of Washington's current running back options are entering the final year of their respective contracts. Adam Peters is always thinking two steps ahead and does things with the long term in mind. That's why the front-office leader would be wise to examine a deep group of backfield prospects emerging from the college ranks this year.
Commanders could trade Austin Ekeler if another running back arrives in the draft
Sterling Xie from Pro Football Network thought adding another running back into the mix could place Austin Ekeler on the trade block when it's all said and done. The analyst thought a return to the Los Angeles Chargers or backing up Alvin Kamara on the New Orleans Saints could be intriguing spots for the player if this scenario came to fruition.
"Of the group, Austin Ekeler is the oldest back (he turns 30 in May). Ekeler saw a reduced role last season after leading the Chargers backfield for years, as his 9.3 touches and 61.1 scrimmage yards per game were both his fewest since his rookie year. However, he remains an efficient back who can help in the receiving game, as his 10.5 yards per reception were also his most since 2019. Ekeler’s old team doesn’t have a great receiving option out of the backfield, which could allow the Chargers to pair him with Najee Harris. His former head coach, Brandon Staley, is on the Saints’ coaching staff — another possible connection with Alvin Kamara missing multiple games in four straight seasons."Sterling Xie
Ekeler was serviceable as the team's pass-catching threat out of the backfield. The Commanders lost the former undrafted free agent to a serious concussion down the stretch, but he returned for the postseason. His NFL Championship game fumble versus the Philadelphia Eagles ensured the campaign ended on a sour note, but Washington has kept faith the the veteran for now.
Any incoming college prospect, especially if Peters takes one early in the draft, will shake up the dynamic considerably. This could potentially impact Jeremy McNichols and Chris Rodriguez Jr. more than Ekeler, but there's just no telling for sure. One also must wonder if there would be any legitimate trade interest if the Commanders became receptive to offers.
Ekeler's got a lot of tread on the tires. He suffered two concussions last season. His production and leadership remain pleasing overall. Whether a team would want to sacrifice a draft pick when they could just take one from a strong-looking 2025 class is highly debatable.
There's a better chance of Ekeler seeing out his deal in Washington. He'll be an asset in the passing game and as a kick returner unless there's a drastic drop-off in performance levels. After that, the Commanders can go in a different direction.