The Washington Commanders could cut $31 million running back Austin Ekeler this offseason. According to a report, they’re urging the Commanders, as it’s nothing new, that the team needs more out of this unit. The offense was on fire with quarterback Jayden Daniels, but the biggest weak link is the ground game. However, the Commanders are bringing back Ekeler on another contract, so it would be odd to see the team trade him just months after extending his deal.
Meanwhile, it’s not impossible as Brian Robinson Jr. could be on the trade as well, and the offense has been way too reliant on Daniels. Sooner or later, the other 31 teams in the league will figure out how Daniels performs as each season progresses, and it’s safe to say that the Commanders should trade Ekeler to get some draft capital in return. Washington is in a “win now” mindset since they have Daniels and will want to potentially head to a Super Bowl before the quarterback’s contract is up. If the Commanders can’t find a trade partner in the NFL Draft, the team could release him before the 2025 season and find a capable replacement in free agency.
The bad news is that there isn’t enough talent in the market. Despite that, many reports were listing Ekeler as a cap casualty, so these five teams could give him a chance on a one-year deal to see what he can do in their offense.
Breaking: Commanders May Cut $31 Million All-Pro Austin Ekeler – 5 Possible Destinations
Next Possible Fits
Kansas City Chiefs
Last season, the Kansas City Chiefs were without Isiah Pacheco for the majority of the 2024 campaign. They had to depend on veteran Kareem Hunt to hold down stomping grounds, and they’re hoping Pacheco can get back to his old self. Even after signing Elijah Mitchell, the Chiefs should add Ekeler to serve as a screenplay specialist to keep the offense moving.
Los Angeles Chargers
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Chargers are testing the waters again this 2025 season. After signing Najee Harris, the Chargers should add another running back to boost the competition. Nobody loves the run game more than head coach Jim Harbaugh, but a reunion shouldn’t be out of the question for Ekeler. The Chargers may bring him back if it means signing him for cheap to serve as a backup for Harris.
New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints have one of the best running backs in the league in star Alvin Kamara, and they will probably have to depend on the ground game this 2025 season. With Derek Carr out with an injury, the Saints are left without an adequate quarterback in their arsenal. Kamara is one of the fastest running backs, and adding Ekeler in that mix could ferociously improve the unit.
Buffalo Bills
It might be a chaotic NFL Training Camp for the Buffalo Bills, who are at risk of losing running back James Cook. The team might be forced to trade him if they can’t give him the contract he wants. While Ekeler isn’t the ideal starter, he could hold it down for a couple of games.
Baltimore Ravens
Derrick Henry has become one of the best players on this Baltimore Ravens offense. However, he’s aging and can’t do it alone in the backfield. While Keaton Mitchell has potential, they need another running back with more experience, and Ekeler could provide that.
The post Breaking: Commanders May Cut $31 Million All-Pro – 5 Possible Destinations appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.