Los Angeles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler missed practice for the second straight day on Friday and is listed as questionable to play against the New England Patriots.
Coach Brandon Staley announced Ekeler’s hip became sore following practice Wednesday, the same day the team’s most productive ball carrier said he was feeling better physically following the team’s bye week.
“It felt much better the last two days, and real hopeful that he can play,” Staley said on Friday.
Ekeler, 26, leads the team in carries (73), rushing yards (356) and rushing touchdowns (four). He also has 27 receptions for 242 yards and three scores for the Chargers (4-2).
Larry Rountree’s 24 carries are the second-most on the team. Justin Jackson and Joshua Kelley are also candidates for more work in the backfield should Ekeler sit out against the visiting Patriots (3-4) on Sunday.
Linebacker Drue Tranquill, who is nursing a chest injury, also was listed as questionable after being limited in practice for the third straight day.
–Field Level Media