Austin Ekeler seeks permission to discuss trade

chargers star running back thank you austin is requesting permission to speak with other teams about possible trade options, his agent confirmed to the athletic on Monday. ESPN was first to report the news. Here’s what you need to know:

• Ekeler’s agent said preliminary talks with Los Angeles about a contract extension have not progressed, prompting this latest request.
• Ekeler has scored 38 total touchdowns in his past two seasons. No other player has more than 26 in the span.
• Via TruMedia, his 52 total touchdowns since 2019 rank second among all non-quarterbacks, behind only derrick henry. During that span, he ranks second among 52 qualifying RBs (min. 500 routes traveled) in yards per route (1.92).

the athleticInstant analysis of:

Ekeler’s case for a new deal

He’s been one of the most productive players in football for the past two seasons, yet he ranks 13th among running backs in average annual value. His salary cap of $7.75 million for 2023 ranks 11th among running backs. Ekeler is objectively underpaid, and I think he’ll have some leverage if he decides to wait for an extension. Ekeler is in the last year of his contract.

The Chargers need Ekeler on the field. Without Ekeler, the Chargers would be looking for a tandem of starting running backs Joshua Kelley and Isaiah Spiller. I am optimistic about those two riders, but they are obviously not Ekeler.

Ekeler turns 28 in May. Now would be the time to try to force out that third deal from the Chargers. The team signed Ekeler to a really smart deal after the 2019 season. He has far exceeded that contract. — Square bracket

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