Chargers Daily Links: Austin Ekeler unveils his namesake foundation

Austin Ekeler’s path to the NFL was an unlikely one. Of course, we’re all aware of his path from small-town standout to Division II star to undrafted free agent and now a starting running back in the NFL. If there was ever a an obstruction in his path, he found a way to blow through it.

Now that he’s an established professional athlete, he’s setting his sights on how he can help those who seek to follow in his footsteps. That’s why he recently unveiled the Austin Ekeler Foundation, whose mission is “to help create opportunities for people to fulfill their passions and ultimately their lives.”

“The reason I call it the Austin Ekeler Foundation is because I envision myself helping who I used to be as a kid,” Ekeler told Chargers reporter, Chris Hayre. “And that’s someone who came from a small town – not that many resources. I had a lot of support which was great, but it was just a time in my life where I was like, ‘I really don’t know what’s happening. I really don’t have any real guidance as far as what I’m trying to do later on in life.’

Recently, Ekeler found out that nearby Santa Barbara High School was in need of a new gym facility. It didn’t take long before Ek chose the project to be his foundation’s first undertaking.

It’s hard not to root incredibly hard for a guy like that. Huge kudos to AE30.

Now for today’s links.

Chargers News:

Austin Ekeler just launched the Austin Ekeler Foundation (Chargers.com)

Five cornerback prospects the Chargers should consider (Chargers Wire)

Receivers for the Chargers in rounds three through seven (Bolt Beat)

What picks prior to No. 13 could help the Chargers’ chances at a blue-chip player (Bolt Beat)

NFL News:

The Titans haven’t lost confidence in their scouting department after Isaiah Wilson loss (NFL.com)

Deshaun Watson now has 22 lawsuits filed against him (ESPN)

Best remaining free agents over the age of 30 (NFL.com)

Ryan Day called out criticism of Justin Fields while also taking a shot at players who opted-out in 2020 (Pro Football Talk)

Seven NFL receivers who could be traded for to upgrade WR-needy teams (CBS Sports)

New 2021 mock draft (Bleacher Report)