Chargers News: Austin Ekeler Practicing on Wednesday

A welcome return for the running back.

Chargers running back Austin Ekeler is back at practice after he missed weeks two and three with a nagging ankle injury. 

The talented skill player donned his helmet for team stretches and his presence on the field indicated his return to the field could come this weekend. 

#Chargers RB Austin Ekeler (ankle) is on the practice field stretching with the team. Has gloves on and his helmet with him. Looks like he will practice in some capacity today.

— Daniel Popper (@danielrpopper) September 27, 2023

Though his team collected their first win of the season they've missed their talented back on offense for the last two games. 

Joshua Kelley played a complementary role to Ekeler in week one with great success, but his role as the lead back paled in comparison. 

The former Bruin combined for just 51 yards on 24 total carries which came as a surprise after new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore stressed a more balanced attack for the unit. 

Another element both fans and quarterback Justin Herbert sorely missed through Ekeler's absence is his ability to catch passes out of the backfield. 

Kelley caught just one pass for five yards and Ekeler's return is sure to change that figure given the latter's skill set. 

Ekeler's return becomes even more important as the offense is now without Mike Williams for the rest of the season due to his torn ACL. 

Sofi Stadium welcomes the Raiders in week four after the Bolts' gritty and shocking win against the Vikings. 

LA escaped Minnesota with a four-point victory thanks to Brandon Staley getting bailed out by his defense after his coaching gaffe. 

After Kenneth Murray Jr. picked Kirk Cousins off at the goal line in the final seconds the Bolts secured their first win of the year and likely saved Staley's job. 

Though Davante Adams poses another tough challenge for a sorely lackluster Chargers' secondary, the team likely gets their star running back healthy to play in the divisional clash. 

LA could easily bring their record to .500 especially if Vegas quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo fails to clear concussion protocol. 

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