Chargers News: Austin Ekeler Confirms Full Readiness for Monday Night Showdown

He's baaaaaaack.
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As the Los Angeles Chargers get ready for their matchup with the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football this week, it seems that they will be getting one of their key players back from injury. Running back Austin Ekeler has missed the last few weeks while recovering from an injury, but he is on track to return Monday.

Ekeler gives this team a much-needed boost in their running game, and they have struggled to run the ball since he went out. His presence in the lineup will be a welcomed sight, and he gave a positive update regarding his status for the game against Dallas.

“Ekeler has indicated that it will be business as usual on Monday night. He said that he felt good enough to play during the bye week and no longer wears the thick brace he sported on his right ankle when he first returned to practice. Ekeler has still worn tape on the ankle but said he doesn't have pain when making cuts or running on an angle, which was the issue before. With receiver Mike Williams out for the season with an ACL tear, Ekeler will be a big help for the Chargers' passing offense and will boost their run game.”

Per Kris Rhim of ESPN.com

Getting Ekeler back for this game will give the Bolts offense a massive boost because of his multi-faceted skillset. He can help out of the backfield, but he also helps open the passing game up as well.

Dallas likes to use their strong interior defenders to rush the quarterbacks, so quick screen passes could be one way to get the offense going in this one. Having Ekeler be the guy to catch those gives LA a significant advantage due to his skill.

The Chargers know they will need to get rid of the ball quickly against this Cowboys defensive line. Otherwise, quarterback Justin Herbert could be on the ground a lot. They have the capability to change the game if they get the chance, so the Bolts offensive line will need to be ready.

If they can protect Herbert and open running lanes for Ekeler, LA should be able to put up a lot of points. His return should help this team, and they need to get this win before they meet Kansas City next week.

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Matt Levine
MATT LEVINE

Matt earned a Master of Science degree in Sport Management from Louisiana State University in 2021. He was born and raised in the Los Angeles area, covering all Southern California sports in his career.