Exciting News: Chargers’ Star Austin Ekeler Expected to Make Electrifying Comeback Against Cowboys

COSTA MESA, Calif. — In an exciting update, Chargers running back Austin Ekeler expressed his confidence in returning to the field for his team’s highly anticipated Week 6 game against the Cowboys on Monday night. With a high right ankle sprain that kept him out since the Chargers’ Week 1 loss to the Dolphins, Ekeler revealed that there is a “99% chance” of his triumphant comeback.

Providing some insight into his recovery, Ekeler disclosed that he was a full participant in practice and even opted to shed the ankle brace that had been supporting his injured ankle. The media were able to witness Ekeler catching passes, effortlessly executing juke moves, and running at an impressive pace. He also actively engaged in individual drills with the rest of the running back group, following some additional training with running backs coach Derrick Foster.

Eager to contribute to his team’s success, Ekeler commented on his progress and stated, “I feel good. I feel really good. I felt like I probably could’ve played during the bye week if I had a game then. It’s taken a little to get back just to being around football, reactive stuff, things like that. But it’s something that we’ll work into this week and be ready to go.”

Interestingly, the timing of the Chargers’ early bye week worked in Ekeler’s favor. While such early breaks are generally unfavorable due to extended periods without rest, Ekeler found it to be beneficial, especially considering the team’s injuries to key players. Emphasizing the importance of maintaining his recovery and fitness during the bye week, Ekeler expressed his commitment to movement and shared, “Even if you are healthy, you want to continue to move during the bye week. So, it was one of those scenarios where, ‘OK, let’s get out there, let’s run.’ [I] did a couple of workouts during the bye week, felt good, and as a result, was back there on the field today.”

Eager to replicate the success of the Chargers’ Week 1 game, where they rushed for an impressive 233 yards, with Ekeler alone contributing 117 yards, the team hopes his return will bolster their rushing offense. While the rushing game hasn’t been as effective recently, with no rusher surpassing 100 yards, the Week 4 victory over the Raiders saw a promising improvement, with a total of 155 rushing yards. Ekeler’s return also adds value to the Chargers’ passing offense, as he led the team in targets and receptions last season.

However, it’s worth noting that Ekeler’s return is just one positive development among the Chargers’ numerous injuries. For instance, quarterback Justin Herbert, who fractured the middle finger on his non-throwing hand in the Week 4 win over the Raiders, participated in practice with a protective glove on his injured hand. Tight end Donald Parham Jr., who suffered a wrist injury in the Raiders game, wore a brace on his right hand but seemed to handle drills and catches without any significant issues. Unfortunately, edge rusher Joey Bosa’s hamstring and toe injuries have prevented him from practicing since before the Chargers’ Week 3 game against the Minnesota Vikings.