1. Introduction
Austin Ekeler has carved a notable NFL career trajectory: from undrafted free agent to commanding milestone contracts. As of September 12, 2025, recent developments—including an injury and team shifts—raise questions among fans. This comprehensive article covers his career earnings, current playing status, and jersey number, plus detailed FAQs.
2. Early Life & College Career
Born May 17, 1995, in Lincoln, Nebraska, Ekeler played college football at Western Colorado from 2013 to 2016. He finished as the school’s all-time leader in rushing yards, with remarkable totals: 5,857 rushing yards and 55 rushing touchdowns over 40 games.
3. Undrafted Breakthrough & Chargers Tenure
Ekeler entered the NFL in 2017 as an undrafted free agent, signing a three-year, $1.66 million contract with a modest $5,000 signing bonus. Over seven seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers, he established himself as a dynamic dual-threat back—amassing significant yardage and touchdowns both rushing and receiving.
In March 2020, he secured a four-year, $24.5 million contract extension with the Chargers.
4. Commanders Move & Earnings Summary
In March 2024, Ekeler signed a two-year deal with the Washington Commanders worth up to $11.43 million. Additional details from Spotrac show the current deal was $8.43 million over two years, with cash payouts of $4.82 million (2024) and $3.61 million (2025), and career earnings of approximately $31.84 million at that point.
Other reports estimate his career earnings closer to $35.5 million.
A human interest note mentions his modest lifestyle despite substantial income—living simply and driving a $40,000 car. Austin Ekeler career earnings.
Earnings Snapshot (Approximate):
| Source | Career Earnings |
|---|---|
| Spotrac | $31.84 million |
| Spotrac Potential | $35.45 million |
| Spotrac (alternate) | $35.496 million |
5. Current Playing Status (“Is He Playing Today?”)
As of tonight’s Thursday Night Football game, Austin Ekeler suffered a devastating non-contact Achilles injury and was ruled out of the game—likely a season-ending setback. He was carted off the field and is expected to undergo further evaluation.
According to ESPN, his status is officially OUT, confirming the severity of the injury. Austin Ekeler career earnings.
6. Jersey Number – What Number Is He?
Austin Ekeler wears jersey #30 for the Washington Commanders.
7. Career Achievements & Stats (Through 2025)**
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Career Rushing: 4,748 yards and 43 rushing touchdowns
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Receiving: 4,281 receiving yards with 30 receiving touchdowns
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Highlighted as a Second-team All-Pro (as kick returner) in 2024
8. FAQ Section
Q1: What are Austin Ekeler’s total career earnings?
Answer: Estimates vary. Spotrac lists career earnings at around $31.84 million, with potential earnings of ~$35.45 million. A separate figure notes $35.496 million.
Q2: Is Austin Ekeler playing today?
Answer: No, Austin Ekeler is OUT due to a likely torn Achilles injury suffered in the Thursday Night Football game.
Q3: What jersey number does Austin Ekeler wear?
Answer: He wears #30 for the Washington Commanders.
Q4: Which teams has he played for?
Answer: He played seven seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers (2017–2023) before signing with the Washington Commanders in 2024.
Q5: What are his career stats?
Answer: Through the 2025 season start:
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Rushing – 4,748 yards, 43 TDs
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Receiving – 4,281 yards, 30 TDs.
9. Conclusion
Austin Ekeler’s journey from undrafted hopeful to NFL standout is impressive. With over $30 million in earnings, a reputation for versatility, and the signature jersey number 30, he’s firmly established in league history. Tragically, his Achilles injury may sideline him for the season, adding uncertainty to his future—but his legacy already speaks volumes.
