At the beginning of the NFL offseason, it was publicly revealed that Austin Ekeler had requested a trade from the Los Angeles Chargers.
Ekeler has been an impactful part of the Chargers’ offense, both as a rusher and a pass-catcher.
Many fans have been hopeful that he will stay on the roster, but there have been few details released since this initial request.
In a recent installment of the Rich Eisen Show, Chargers GM Tom Telesco said: “Nothing’s changed.”
🗣️ @chargers GM Tom Telesco
The latest from the #BoltUp decision maker on the status of their star running back @AustinEkeler:#NFL pic.twitter.com/pFkeb7Rwaz
— Rich Eisen Show (@RichEisenShow) May 9, 2023
“As a GM, you have to deal with a lot of people’s salaries,” he added.
Not only does he have to worry about the salaries of players, but also coaches, support staff, and so many others.
While Ekeler remains one of the league’s premier running backs, he will be 28 years old to begin the 2023 season.
He is looking for a long-term contract, but, his shelf life in the league is numbered.
Generally speaking, running backs decline in production the closer they get to 30.
Ekeler hasn’t necessarily shown signs of slowing down, but the Chargers might be hesitant to move forward with him.
Ultimately, Ekeler remains a member of the Chargers.
Whether he leaves the team remains to be seen, but Telesco has maintained the fact that they intend to keep him around.
The Chargers made the playoffs last season and will look to grow again this year, a tall task with the Kansas City Chiefs in the division.
NEXT: The Chargers Remain Stacked On Paper In 2023