Predicting Chargers RB Austin Ekeler’s Production in 2020

Ekeler had double-digit carries in just four games last year. It’s no surprise just one of them came in the 12 games Gordon played. But he offset that with at least five receptions and/or a touchdown in 14 games. Widen that to at least four catches, and it’s 15 of 16 games.

Fantasy owners in search of a deep sleeper are looking toward Ekeler’s backups-Justin Jackson and Joshua Kelley. Time will tell if either one emerges (and it will only be one if Ekeler is healthy). But history has shown the Chargers can support two fantasy relevant running backs. With the caveat that Rivers was the quarterback, of course.

Ekeler had 224 touches and 1,550 total yards while playing 57 percent of the snaps in 2019. Push him into the 60 percent range (say 5-10 percent more snaps), which can be done easily, and 250 touches is well within sight.

The question is how those touches will be distributed, carries and receptions. More carries is a given, but how will that effect (dampen?) his broader impact? Can repeat the 10-plus yards per catch he has posted the last three seasons?

Austin Ekeler 2020 Projection: 196 carries for 920 yards, 6 TD; 65 receptions for 661 yards, 5 TD