Los Angeles Chargers Star Austin Ekeler could stay with the team next season after getting go-ahead to seek a trade last month, but staying there wouldn’t be a dream scenario for the veteran running back.
During an interview with SiriusXM Fantasy Sports Radio, Ekeler discussed failed contract negotiations with the Chargerswhich ultimately led to his decision to seek a trade, adding that he was looking for a commitment to a «long-term plan».
Austin Ekeler #30 of the Los Angeles Chargers during the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 26, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
«I got punched in the face when the Chargers basically said, ‘Hey, we don’t want to talk about extensions anymore,'» Ekeler said.
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«This is the organization where I continued to climb and reach new heights and continue to add more value…so, that’s what it felt like, right? It felt like, ‘Wow, this is the first time in my career with them. . that I felt disrespected by my own organization.'»
Ekeler led the league last season with 18 scrimmage touchdowns and has scored an NFL-high 38 touchdowns over the past two seasons. But when both sides sat down to discuss his future with the team, Ekeler suggested the talks were one-sided.
Austin Ekeler #30 of the Los Angeles Chargers carries the ball against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the first half of the AFC Wild Card playoff game at TIAA Bank Field on January 14, 2023 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images)
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«It sucks. I want to be a Charger. I want to be a Charger. I want to be there, and it sucks because it’s like, ‘OK, let’s do something,'» he said.
«Yeah, I have one more year on my contract, absolutely, but for them to let me go and be a free agent next year after I play, maybe we’ll do something during the year. Who knows what it’s like.» going to play? But that’s how I feel right now. We have no idea how they’re thinking because they’re like, ‘No, we don’t want to talk anymore.
Austin Ekeler #30 of the Los Angeles Chargers runs after his catch during a 23-17 win over the Miami Dolphins at SoFi Stadium on December 11, 2022 in Inglewood, California. (Harry How/Getty Images)
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Signed as an undrafted free agent in 2017, Ekeler is entering the final year of his four-year, $24.5 million deal. He’s prepared to test the waters to get the deal he wants, but that could mean Ekeler staying in Los Angeles, something he said would be «the worst case scenario.»
«Look, I guess worst-case scenario right now: I’ll come back and have to play for the Chargers for a year and bet on myself and then be a free agent next year.»
Associated Press contributed to this report.