Chargers RB Austin Ekeler doubtful ahead of Week 4 vs. Raiders

Update, Sept. 29 — Ekeler draws the rare doubtful tag for this weekend’s game. Los Angeles could give him the upcoming bye week to be fully healthy.

Update, Sept. 28 — Ekeler was listed as a limited practice participant for the second day in a row. It’s a good sign for the running back, and a full participation on Friday could mean he heads into the weekend without an injury designation.

Update, Sept. 27 — Ekeler will push his ankle this week to see if he can play this weekend.

Update, Sept. 27 — Ekeler was able to get in a limited practice on Wednesday. This is a good sign for his possible availability this week against the Raiders. A full practice on Friday would be ideal.

Los Angeles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler was dressed for practice and stretching with the team on Wednesday ahead of Week 4. Ekeler has been dealing with an ankle injury that he sustained in Week 1. He has not played since the first week of the season as he recovers.

In Week 1, Ekeler had 16 carries for 117 yards and a touchdown, and added four receptions for another 47 yards. The Chargers face the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 4.

Fantasy football implications for Week 4

Ekeler’s return would be a major boost for any fantasy manager with the RB on their roster. Joshua Kelley has been seeing the majority of carries in the backfield in Ekeler’s absence, and has 142 rushing yards and one touchdown over three games. If Ekeler returns and is limited, Kelley will likely still see some action against the Raiders, but is not worth a start on your roster. Unless Ekeler is on some sort of snap count or restriction, he’s starting in all formats.