Los Angeles Chargers star running back Austin Ekeler requested to speak with other teams about a potential trade as a contract extension between him and the Chargers could not be reached.
While the team granted that request, the Chargers reportedly have ensured that Ekeler will spend the 2023 season in Los Angeles.
Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Ekeler is staying in Los Angeles and having close to $2 million in incentives added to his deal for the season. As Schefter points out, it’s a win-win for both sides, as Ekeler will remain with the Chargers for at least the 2023 NFL season and then still will reach free agency on the right side of 30 years old.
Judging by the team’s offseason moves following Ekeler’s request, it appears the Chargers considered it but it was something they never seriously contemplated. Unless Los Angeles was given an offer it couldn’t refuse, being unable to keep Ekeler on its roster would’ve been a huge blow to the team’s playoff chances in the years ahead.
Ekeler is currently entering the final year of his contract and is set to make $6.25 million in base salary, in addition to nearly $2 million in incentives. He led the Chargers in rushing in 2022 with 915 yards and 13 touchdowns and also led the team with 107 catches and five receiving touchdowns.
Now that his deal has been sweetened, one would assume that Ekeler will now report to the team’s mandatory minicamp, which begins June 13.
[Adam Schefter; photo from Mark J. Rebilas/USA TODAY Sports]