Austin Ekeler

Ekeler had 881 yards rushing, 686 yards receiving, and 18 total touchdowns in the 2022 fantasy season. He was given permission to seek a trade, so it remains to be seen what his role will be in 2023 and with what team.

3/17: Gains new risk with trade demands. His highest value is undoubtedly right at home, although he is talented enough to sustain RB1 upside nearly anywhere. Just not THE RB1 upside, like he has now.

No player has scored more touchdowns over the past two seasons, than Austin Ekeler. The Chargers' red-zone machine scored 18 TDs (5 receiving, 13 rushing) a year after scoring 20 touchdowns in 2021. Simply put, those that faded Ekeler due to TD regression narratives got burned this past season. And the touchdowns were just part of Ekeler's RB1 finish in half-point scoring, as he lead all RBs in receptions and targets, which substantially boosted his fantasy numbers. Ekeler was fully unlocked as a receiver with Keenan Allen and Mike Williams combining for 13 missed games. Until the Chargers WRs can prove they can stand the test of a 17-game season, Ekeler will remain the focal point of LA's offense. Especially if the Chargers fail to make any worthwhile addition in their backfield, because nobody currently on the depth chart is "forcing" their way onto the field.