As we inch toward the new season, the ever-changing NFL landscape has player fantasy values constantly on the move. Whether you’re used to the dynasty platform or are still learning the rules, let’s dive into the latest dynasty value of Austin Ekeler.
Austin Ekeler’s Dynasty Outlook and Value
Players like Ekeler present the most challenging decisions for dynasty managers. The single-most valuable asset in fantasy football remains the elite running back, and we know Ekeler is one of them. A big fantasy football fan, Ekeler finished as the overall RB2 in 2021 and thought to himself, “That’s good … but I can do better.”
And he did. Ekeler was the overall RB1 in 2022, averaging 21.9 ppg.
Over the past two years, Ekeler’s scored an absurd 38 touchdowns. I remember a time when he was considered “injury-prone.” I’m not quite sure why. The man has played at least 14 games in all but one season.
Ekeler is as sure of a sure thing as you can get in fantasy. He’s led all running backs in targets in back-to-back seasons. And somehow, despite the massive volume, he remains pretty efficient.
MORE: 2023 Dynasty Rookie Rankings
Ekeler averaged 5.3 yards per touch, 15th in the NFL. He also posted 3.9 yards created per touch, fourth in the league. He has volume, efficiency, an elite receiving role, and a massive touchdown upside. So, what’s not to like?
As with many running backs, the issue is shelf life. Ekeler has given us four consecutive RB1 seasons. He’s now 28 years old and entering the final year of his contract. The Chargers also massively lucked out with Ekeler’s contract. He’ll cost them just $7.75 million against the cap this season.
With all that said, and for as talented as Ekeler is, I can’t imagine LA giving him a lucrative extension at 29. We know receiving backs can extend their careers longer than pure runners, but how valuable is Ekeler really if he turns into what Matt Forte looked like at 30?
Austin Ekeler’s Fantasy Ranking
Ekeler has the skill set to maintain fantasy value for another three or four years, but he may not be the Ekeler we’ve become accustomed to seeing beyond this upcoming season. That puts fantasy managers in a precarious position.
I have full confidence that 2023 is not the year Ekeler falls off a cliff. So, if you’re a contending team, don’t look to part ways with a clear top-three RB. But if you’re rebuilding, you have to at least consider moving Ekeler for younger assets.
Currently, Ekeler sits at RB7, No. 29 overall in our latest dynasty Superflex rankings. Obviously, he should be far more valuable than this in 2023. But we must factor in longevity, of which Ekeler has very little remaining.
With that said, the goal is ultimately to win when you can. If Ekeler even has two more elite seasons in him, then he’s probably undervalued. If Ekeler is there in the third round, I’d have a hard time passing him up in dynasty startup drafts.