History of Austin Ekeler in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 12, 2024

Austin Ekeler is an American football running back for the Washington Commanders. He played college football for the Western Colorado Mountaineers and began his NFL career as an undrafted free agent with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2017.

1986: Herschel Walker's 10/100 Game

In 1986, Herschel Walker accomplished a remarkable feat in the NFL, averaging over 10 yards per carry and reception in a single game where he achieved at least 100 yards in both categories.

May 17, 1995: Austin Ekeler's Birth

Austin Ekeler was born on May 17, 1995.

2013: College Football Journey Begins

In 2013, Austin Ekeler started playing college football at Western Colorado.

2016: College Football Concludes

In 2016, Austin Ekeler concluded his college football career at Western Colorado.

2017: NFL Free Agent Signing

Austin Ekeler signed with the Los Angeles Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2017.

2017: Contract Signing with the Chargers

Following the 2017 NFL draft, Austin Ekeler signed a three-year, $1.66 million contract with the Los Angeles Chargers. This contract included a signing bonus of $5,000.

2018: Breakout Season with the Chargers

During the 2018 season, Austin Ekeler had a breakout year, showcasing his abilities with both rushing and receiving touchdowns. Notably, he suffered a neck injury during Week 14, sidelining him for two games, but he returned for the final game against the Broncos.

2019: Starting Role and Impressive Performances

In the 2019 NFL season, Austin Ekeler started for the Chargers due to Melvin Gordon's contract dispute. Ekeler had several standout performances, including a game-winning touchdown in Week 1, consistent rushing and receiving contributions throughout the season, and a remarkable Week 14 performance where he became the first player since Herschel Walker to average over 10 yards per carry and reception in a 100/100 game.

March 16, 2020: Contract Extension with the Chargers

On March 16, 2020, Austin Ekeler secured a four-year contract extension with the Chargers, worth $24.5 million, reflecting his value to the team.

October 9, 2020: Injury and Placement on Injured Reserve

Austin Ekeler's 2020 season was disrupted by a hamstring and knee injury sustained in Week 4, leading to his placement on injured reserve on October 9, 2020.

November 28, 2020: Return from Injury

On November 28, 2020, Austin Ekeler was activated from injured reserve, marking his return to the field after recovering from a hamstring and knee injury.

2021: Establishment of the Austin Ekeler Foundation

In 2021, Austin Ekeler demonstrated his commitment to philanthropy and community impact by establishing the Austin Ekeler Foundation, aimed at empowering individuals to pursue their passions and live fulfilling lives.

2022: Continued Excellence and Historic Scoring Feats

Austin Ekeler continued his dominance in the 2022 season, achieving remarkable scoring feats. Notably, he joined Marshall Faulk as the only two players in NFL history to achieve 10 or more rushing touchdowns and 5 or more receiving touchdowns in consecutive seasons, showcasing his versatility and scoring prowess. His exceptional performance, highlighted by a career-long 72-yard run, earned him the AFC Offensive Player of the Week award, solidifying his position among the league's elite running backs.

2022: Leading the NFL in Touchdowns and Recognition

In the 2022 NFL season, Austin Ekeler achieved a significant milestone by leading the league in touchdowns alongside Jonathan Taylor, demonstrating his exceptional scoring ability. This accomplishment further solidified his status as a top running back in the NFL, earning him recognition and respect from his peers as reflected in his ranking on the NFL Top 100 Players list.

2023: Free Agency

After the 2023 season, Austin Ekeler entered free agency, exploring new opportunities to continue his NFL journey.

2023: Contract Dispute and Continued Production

Despite a contract dispute with the Chargers in the 2023 season, Austin Ekeler maintained a high level of play, consistently producing as a key player for the team. This situation highlights his professionalism and dedication to his craft despite off-field challenges.

March 18, 2024: Signing with the Washington Commanders

On March 18, 2024, Austin Ekeler, after becoming a free agent, signed a two-year contract with the Washington Commanders, embarking on a new chapter in his NFL career.