AustinEkeler

News: 2 days agoEkeler (hamstring) carried the ball 14 times for 44 yards and also caught 11 of his 16 targets for 85 yards in the 27-17 loss Sunday to the Bills.

Spin: It quickly became apparent the pre-game report suggesting Ekeler would not be the team's bell-cow was misinformed as the talented back was the main catalyst on the team's first scoring drive of the game. It's hard to imagine the Chargers planned to give Ekeler a whopping 16 targets in his first game back after a nearly two-month absence, but an early deficit essentially forced a pass-heavy game script for most of the contest. A seven-carry advantage over backup Joshua Kelley mimicked the type of split the Chargers deployed earlier in the season, so it's safe to say Ekeler is back to being one of the top fantasy running backs, especially in PPR leagues.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Ekeler received a contract extension, and former running mate Melvin Gordon is now in Denver, which locks in the former as the Chargers' lead back in 2020. Ekeler took his game to a new level last season, especially as a receiver, ranking no lower than second among backs in targets, receptions, yards and touchdowns. Despite Gordon playing a substantial role in 12 games, Ekeler was fantasy's No. 4 scoring back. Ekeler's small frame will limit his carries and goal-line work (he's never cleared 132 carries or three rushing touchdowns in a season), and he's unlikely to repeat a 91-992-8 receiving line with Tyrod Taylor and Justin Herbert under center. Expect a step back for Ekeler, though his role can still allow borderline RB1 production in PPR.