These 5 running backs are the NFL's most explosive right now

These 5 running backs are the NFL’s most explosive right now

LANDOVER, MD - DECEMBER 15: Miles Sanders #26 of the Philadelphia Eagles celebrates with J.J. Arcega-Whiteside #19 and Dallas Goedert #88 after catching a pass for a touchdown against the Washington Redskins during the second half at FedExField on December 15, 2019 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO – NOVEMBER 18: Austin Ekeler #30 of the Los Angeles Chargers runs the ball while breaking two tackles during an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday, November 18, 2019, in Mexico City. The Chiefs defeated the Chargers 24-17. (Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images) /

2. Austin Ekeler, Los Angeles Chargers

15+ Yard Gains in 2019: 28

Total Touches: 224

15+ Yard Gains to Touches Percentage: 12.5

Imagine the panic in former teammate Melvin Gordon’s loins when Austin Ekeler was dominating games in Gordon’s contractually-driven holdout last season. That fear was well-founded.

Ekeler was anointed as the Chargers’ RB1 last season while Melvin Gordon tried to ascertain a better contract. Ekeler won; Gordon lost. Ekeler is now the undisputed RB1 for the Los Angeles Chargers whereas Melvin Gordon will engage in running-back-by-committee gig with Phillip Lindsday and the Broncos.

And Ekeler’s promotion is much deserved. He was an unexpectedly explosive player, and the numbers reflect his big-play prowess. As a gross total, Ekeler’s 28 gains for 15+ yards were second only to Christian McCaffrey (who was the benefactor of copious touches). Bottom line is: when Philip Rivers gave Ekeler the pigskin, the defense got gashed.

A little known fact regarding the 2019 Chargers is that the team ranked seventh in offensive yards per game and was the eighth-best team in the league in yards allowed. Anthony Flynn’s team was an astutely balanced squad–that finished the with 5-11 record. Figure that one out.

The offensive prosperity can be contributed mightily to Ekeler’s emergence as a premiere tailback in the league. And, he did so while busting off explosive plays, most of them via pass (21).

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