The imminent return of Los Angeles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler from his ankle injury in Week 6 could spell trouble for the Dallas Cowboys’ defense.
Ekeler himself has expressed a high level of confidence in his return.
“Am I back? Really close, I would say [there’s] like a 99 percent chance,” Ekeler mentioned on his podcast “Ekeler’s Edge.” “I think it’s safe to say that AE30 is going to be out there on the field.”
While Ekeler has only played in one game this season, his performance was exceptional. In Week 1, during a 36-34 loss to the Miami Dolphins, he rushed for 116 yards and scored one touchdown on 16 carries.
The Dallas Cowboys’ run defense has been inconsistent, ranking 21st in the NFL after allowing 617 rushing yards through five games.

Additionally, the potential absence of linebacker Leighton Vander Esch, who has recorded the team’s second-most tackles (30), due to a neck injury adds to the defensive concerns.
Ekeler’s return provides added protection for Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert, who is currently playing with a fractured middle finger on his left hand.
This protection is vital, especially as the Cowboys are tied for seventh in the NFL in sacks with 15. Ekeler’s blocking abilities are valuable, as last season, he allowed only five pressures in 17 games, whereas the running backs who filled in for him allowed 12 pressures over the last three games.
Furthermore, Chargers offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, who served in the same role in Dallas from 2019 to 2022, is familiar with the Cowboys’ defensive scheme. This knowledge positions Ekeler for a potentially successful outing.
With Ekeler’s multiple advantages and impact on the game, it won’t be surprising if he plays a pivotal role in leading the Chargers to victory, handing the Cowboys their third loss in the past four games.