BREAKING NEWS: Washington Commanders part ways with another $73 million All-Pro. Five NFL teams show interest in him.

Austin Ekeler, a running back worth $31 million, may be cut by the Washington Commanders this summer. They’re telling the Commanders that the team needs more from this unit, which is nothing new, according to a report. With quarterback Jayden Daniels, the offense was blazing, but the ground game is the main weak point. It would be strange to see the team transfer Ekeler only months after extending his contract, though, as the Commanders are bringing him back on another one.

 

It’s not impossible, though, as the offense

has relied too heavily on Daniels and Brian Robinson Jr. may also be traded. It’s safe to assume that the Commanders should deal Ekeler in order to receive some draft capital because the other 31 clubs in the league will eventually discover out how Daniels performs as each season goes on. With Daniels, Washington is in a “win now” mentality and may want to make it to the Super Bowl before the quarterback’s contract expires. The organization may cut him before the 2025 season and look for a qualified replacement in free agency if the Commanders are unable to find a trade partner in the NFL Draft.

The shortage of skill in the market is the bad news. These five teams might give Ekeler a one-year contract to see what he can do in their offense, even though many publications listed him as a cap casualty.

Breaking: Commanders Could Cut All-Pro Austin Ekeler for $31 Million; Here Are 5 Potential Locations for Future Fits

Chiefs of Kansas City
Isiah Pacheco missed much of the 2024 season with the Kansas City Chiefs last season. They are hopeful Pacheco can return to his former self after having to rely on veteran Kareem Hunt to guard stomping grounds. The Chiefs should add Ekeler as a screenplay specialist to keep the offense running even after they signed Elijah Mitchell.

The Chargers of Los Angeles
The Los Angeles Chargers, however, are making another attempt this 2025 season. The Chargers should add another running back to increase competition after acquiring Najee Harris. Head coach Jim Harbaugh is the biggest fan of the run game, but Ekeler shouldn’t rule out a reunion. If the Chargers want to contract him cheaply to backup Harris, they might bring him back.

The New Orleans Saints
This 2025 season, the New Orleans Saints, who boast one of the league’s greatest running backs in Alvin Kamara, will most likely have to rely on the ground game. The Saints are lacking a suitable quarterback in their lineup due to Derek Carr’s injury. Since Kamara is one of the fastest running backs, the unit might be greatly enhanced by including Ekeler.

The Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills, who could lose running back James Cook, could have a hectic NFL Training Camp. If the team is unable to provide him the contract he desires, they may have to trade him. Ekeler could hold it down for a few games, even though he isn’t the best starter.

The Baltimore Ravens
One of the standout performers on this Baltimore Ravens offense is Derrick Henry. But he’s getting too old to play the backfield by himself. Ekeler might be the running back they need with more experience, even though Keaton Mitchell has potential.