Austin Ekeler, Commanders' Fantasy Outlook After RB's Reported $11.4M Contract

The Washington Commanders signed Austin Ekeler to a two-year contract worth up to $11.43 million on Monday, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

After playing the first seven years of his career with the Los Angeles Chargers, Ekeler will spend the 2024 season with the Commanders as well as new offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury.

He's expected to split carries in the backfield with former third-round pick Brian Robinson Jr. after the 24-year-old rushed for 733 yards and five touchdowns in 2023. While this could hurt Ekeler's fantasy value, it remains to be seen how often each back will be used.

Most of the veteran's fantasy value has come from his ability to find the end zone, racking up 44 total touchdowns since the beginning of the 2021 season. However, it's worth noting that only six of those scores occurred in 2023 which hurts his status as a potential RB1 moving forward. If Washington utilizes him inside the red zone often, he could remain an effective fantasy option despite his low yardage totals.

Meanwhile, the wide receiver duo of Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson presents some fantasy value. McLaurin recorded 79 receptions for 1,002 yards in 2023, representing the fourth consecutive year that he's surpassed the 1,000-yard threshold.

As for Dotson, he recorded just 518 yards in his sophomore campaign. However, he was targeted 83 times in 2023 compared to 61 targets in 2022, which could mean that a breakout fantasy year is in store for the former first-round pick.

Armed with the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 draft, the Commanders could target a franchise quarterback after Sam Howell's tumultuous 2023 season. If the front office decides to select a quarterback such as former North Carolina signal-caller Drake Maye, he may become a viable choice.

While it's rare for a rookie quarterback to finish the season as a top-ranked fantasy player, an improved run game could result in a better offensive environment for Maye to theoretically thrive in. The Commanders also signed Pro Bowl center Tyler Biadasz to a three-year deal on Monday, bolstering the offensive line.