Leader Austin Ekeler is energized and ready to prove himself once again

Austin Ekeler is back in a familiar place, needing to prove himself again after leaving the team that drafted him to sign with the Washington Commanders. It's a role he's become comfortable with over the course of his career.

He also said that being in this place “energizes” him.

“I had everything to prove every 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 Leaders facility Monday morning.

The 2017 undrafted free agent worked his way up from a special teams role to become a key part of the Chargers' offense. He went from 538 yards from scrimmage as a starter to 1,550 yards by his third season. He has scored 38 total touchdowns in 2021 and 22. He dropped to 1,064 yards from scrimmage and six scores last season.

“That's what gave me energy my whole time in the league,” Ekeler said. “I represent the underdog 100%. I will continue to be that representation.”

With Washington, Ekeler will serve as the third linebacker with Brian Robinson Jr. and is expected to handle the heaviest part of the running production. Ekeler said Robinson's presence here played a factor in his decision, knowing the burden would be shared. So too did his reunion with his former Chargers coach, Anthony Lynn, now Washington's running game coordinator and running backs coach.

While he said he's still in proof mode, Ekeler remains confident in what he can still add.

“A lot. I'll score you some touchdowns, that's for sure,” he said. “I'll bring some energy.”