Austin Ekeler has been designated to return from IR

On Tuesday afternoon, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that the Chargers have designated running back Austin Ekeler to return from IR this week. While that doesn’t 100 percent mean he will play on Sunday, but it does mean the Bolts’ leader in the backfield will get the opportunity to practice for the first time since Week 4 of this season.

Ekeler sustained a rather severe hamstring injury against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers that has kept him out of the past seven games, but RB1 has stayed diligent and dedicated to his rehab, often-sharing his journey back to the field with his many fans on social media.

Since Week 3, the Chargers have struggled with getting their run game going, especially in recent weeks. Most-recently, the backfield averaged a little over two yards per carry against the Jets. Against the Dolphins, they averaged a meager 3.4.

The return of Ekeler hopefully will bring about the boost they need in the run game and allow the Chargers to be a bit more effective on the ground, especially if the coaching staff continues to insist on pounding the rock.