Chargers running back Austin Ekeler became just the seventh non-quarterback in NFL history to combine for 20 touchdowns between the regular and post-season.
Ekeler had 18 entering the playoffs, but his two rushing touchdowns in the playoff game against the Jaguars put him at 20. He led all non-quarterbacks in total touchdowns.
Despite a lackluster running game as a whole, Ekeler provided plenty of value to the offense with his versatile skill set this season.
Ekeler finished the 2022 regular season as the franchise’s single-season reception leader (107), surpassing Keenan Allen’s previous record of 106. He topped the 900-yard mark on the ground for the second consecutive campaign.
As the Chargers look to the future and figure out what they can do to find playoff success for the first time in decades, Ekeler will be a key part of their plans.
For now, though, this statistical accomplishment will only serve to soften the painful blow of Los Angeles’ season-ending loss in the Wild Card round of the AFC playoffs.
The Bolts will need to enter the 2023 season with a different approach to keep from squandering yet another year of Ekeler’s outstanding efforts in their offense.