5 breakout fantasy football stars to pick up for Week 2
By Jon Dove
Austin Ekeler, Los Angeles Chargers
Stats: five carries, 39 yards, five receptions, 87 yards and one touchdown
Melvin Gordon is the Chargers top running back and a major part of their offense. However, Austin Ekeler has carved out a nice role. He’s a dual threat who creates a ton of mismatches working as a receiver out of the backfield.
The Chargers promise to have a very explosive offense which means there are plenty of targets for Ekeler. Those targets likely increased after the offseason injury to tight end Hunter Henry.
His fantasy value might be a little hit or miss, but this is someone who must be owned if you also have Gordon. In PPR leagues, you can take a flyer on Ekeler as a non-handcuff option. He would work well as a bye-week fill in.
However, there’s huge upside here should Gordon suffer an injury. Ekeler could be someone who wins you your league in this scenario. You just don’t find many players with his potential.
Those fantasy football owners who win championships often take a few risks. This is one of those that could pay off. Maybe drop one of your low ceiling bench pieces to add Ekeler during this week’s waiver wire period.