NFL rumors: 3 teams Ezekiel Elliott could bounce back with in 2023
By Jakob Ashlin
Potential Ezekiel Elliott landing spots for 2023
2. Los Angeles Chargers
At No. 2, we’re staying in LA.
On paper, the Los Angeles Chargers are an excellent fit for Elliott. He could reunite with offensive coordinator Kellen Moore. Moore was a member of the Cowboys’ organization throughout Elliott’s tenure.
The Chargers gave running back Austin Ekeler permission to seek a trade following failed contract extension talks, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Chargers granted permission to RB Austin Ekeler today to seek a trade after the two sides failed to make progress for a new contract, per his agent Cameron Weiss.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 14, 2023
Ekeler would be an immense loss for the Chargers’ offense. Last season, he recorded a career-high 1,637 scrimmage yards and led the NFL with 18 rushing and receiving touchdowns.
Behind Ekeler, the Chargers have little depth. Their options are Joshua Kelley, 2022 fourth-round pick Isaiah Spiller, and 2021 sixth-round pick Larry Rountree III. Last season, the trio averaged a combined 3.47 yards per carry.
If they traded Ekeler, Elliott would give the Chargers a proven, veteran option. I would not expect him to replace Ekeler’s production, but Elliott could give them a quality early-down back.