What happened: The Carolina Panthers are hosting veteran running back Austin Ekeler for a Wednesday workout. The move comes after rookie Jonathon Brooks underwent core muscle surgery that will sideline him for more than a month.
Why it matters: Ekeler provides a potential veteran presence alongside Chuba Hubbard and AJ Dillon. The 31-year-old spent seven seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers before a brief stint with the Washington Commanders that ended with an Achilles tear last September.
By the numbers: During his peak with the Chargers across the 2021 and 2022 seasons, Ekeler amassed 3,195 yards from scrimmage and 38 total touchdowns.
What to watch: Carolina will assess Ekeler's health and explosiveness before deciding whether to sign him to the active roster.