NFL 'MNF' player prop: Austin powers the attack

For the third time in four weeks, the Chargers will have the rapt attention of a national audience. Following prime-time home games that saw them lose to the Cowboys and beat the Bears, they now fly across the country to face the Jets at MetLife Stadium. The hosts are hoping that another strong defensive performance helps extend their winning streak to four games, but we think they’ll struggle to cover the subject of our top prop:

The bet: Over 4½ receptions for Chargers running back Austin Ekeler (DraftKings)

Undrafted out of Western Colorado in 2017, Ekeler earned a roster spot for the Chargers’ first season back in Los Angeles. He has proven to be a highly productive every-down back, but his most notable achievements have come as a receiver.

At this time last year, Ekeler was on a streak of catching seven or more passes in four straight games. He posted double-digit receptions three times in October and November, and he finished the regular season with at least four grabs in 15 of 17 contests. After missing a month of this campaign with an ankle injury, Ekeler looked like his old self last week, establishing season highs with seven catches for 94 yards.

The Jets play stingy pass defense on the outside but have surrendered the fourth-most receptions to running backs. Players at the position have actually accounted for 31% of the team’s total catches allowed, which is the highest mark in the league.

With perimeter weapons Mike Williams and Josh Palmer on the shelf, Justin Herbert figures to be throwing Ekeler’s way early and often.