NFL Trade Rumors: Joe Burrow’s Bengals tipped to land unsettled superstar RB
Last season ended in a disappointing manner for Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals. They lost to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game, falling just short of making successive Super Bowl appearances. However, the Bengals continued to progress with Burrow as their quarterback, and that could be seen as a positive for the franchise.
As per various reports, the reigning AFC North champions are in the market for a running back and have been linked with multiple big names. According to Sam Monson of PFF, Austin Ekeler of the Los Angeles Chargers could be the best possible addition to Burrow's team.
The Chargers have already granted Ekeler permission to seek a trade after contract negotiations broke down, and the running back feels like he is being heavily underpaid. Making a move for Ekeler would make a lot of sense for the Bengals, as he will be a significant upgrade over Joe Mixon.
Last season, Austin Ekeler had 204 carries for 915 yards and scored 18 touchdowns in 17 games. He also had 722 receiving yards on 107 receptions and scored five receiving touchdowns.
The Cincinnati Bengals have one of the best offenses in the league, and adding a player like Ekeler would provide another dimension to their loaded offense led by Joe Burrow. They are likely to keep hold of Tee Higgins as well.
Joe Burrow's Bengals are also in the mix for Ezekiel Elliott
Another running back who is available is Ezekiel Elliott. The Dallas Cowboys released Elliott a few days ago, and he is reportedly interested in playing for the Bengals.
Joe Burrow has a good relationship with Elliott since their time together at Ohio State, and the Bengals could make a move for the former Cowboys running back. Although signing Austin Ekeler might be a better option, the Chargers running back will have many more suitors than Elliott.
Joe Burrow demonstrated that he is a top-three quarterback in the league during the previous two seasons, and the team must do everything necessary to assist him in his pursuit of a Super Bowl.