The Carolina Panthers are looking for help at running back, and they brought in a familiar NFL name Wednesday.
The Panthers worked out veteran running back Austin Ekeler as they look to add depth following the injury to Jonathon Brooks. The workout reportedly went well, but Ekeler will not be signing with Carolina immediately.
Brooks was placed on injured reserve Wednesday after suffering a core muscle injury. He is expected to undergo surgery and miss at least six weeks, leaving the Panthers with a significant hole behind starting running back Chuba Hubbard.
That situation led Carolina to take a look at Ekeler.
The 31-year-old has spent most of his career with the Los Angeles Chargers before joining the Washington Commanders. During his best years with the Chargers, Ekeler established himself as one of the NFL’s most dangerous dual-threat running backs, particularly as a receiver out of the backfield.
Ekeler has not played since suffering a torn Achilles with Washington last September. He was later cleared for football activities and has been working toward a return to the NFL.
Throughout his career, Ekeler has recorded more than 9,000 yards from scrimmage and 73 total touchdowns. His ability to contribute both as a runner and receiver is particularly intriguing for a Panthers team that needs additional depth.
For now, though, Carolina is keeping its options open.
The Panthers currently have Hubbard and veteran AJ Dillon available on their 53-man roster, while practice squad running back Anthony Tyus III is expected to receive an opportunity this week.
Ekeler could still become an option for Carolina later. Wednesday’s workout gave the Panthers an opportunity to see where the veteran stands physically after his Achilles injury.
With Brooks expected to miss several weeks, the Panthers will continue searching for the right solution at running back. And after a successful workout, Ekeler remains a name worth watching in Carolina.
