Who Should I Start? Austin Ekeler or New Orleans Defense

Wednesday, September 23, 12:41 PM

Veteran free-agent running back Austin Ekeler worked out for the Carolina Panthers on Wednesday, per Mike Kaye of ESPN. Kaye reports that Ekeler's workout "went well" but that the veteran back "will not be signing" on Wednesday. Ekeler has not appeared in an NFL game since Week 2 of the 2025 season, when he suffered a season-ending Achilles tear while playing for the Washington Commanders. However, the 31-year-old was productive in a part-time role with Washington in 2024, recording 367 rushing yards, 366 receiving yards, and four touchdowns on 112 touches across 12 games. The Panthers are set to be without running back Jonathon Brooks (abdomen/groin) for six to eight weeks after Brooks underwent core muscle surgery. If signed, Ekeler would likely step in as the passing-down complement to Carolina RB1 Chuba Hubbard. While Hubbard would still likely shoulder early-down and goal-line work, his fantasy outlook would take a hit if the Panthers bring in Ekeler.