Chargers RB Austin Ekeler Has Requested (and Received) Permission to Seek a Trade

March 14, 2023, by Patrick K. Flowers NFL

The Chargers have a problem. Their star running back, Austin Ekeler, wants permission to speak with other teams about a trade, per Adam Schefter.

Chargers’ RB Austin Ekeler is requesting permission to speak with other teams about a potential trade after preliminary talks with the team aimed at a contract extension did not progress, his agent Cameron Weiss told ESPN.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 13, 2023

Ekeler is heading into the final year of his contract and is due to make $6.25 million this season. Ekeler was looking for a new deal with the Chargers. Unfortunately, contract discussions haven’t materialized the way that he would have liked, and now he is putting the pressure on the Chargers.

Ekeler led the league with 20 touchdowns in 2021. He also led the league with 18 touchdowns in 2022. Ekeler caught a career-high 107 passes last year and tallied 722 yards receiving. He also rushed for 915 yards, averaging 4.5 yards per carry.

Ekeler is trying to force the Chargers hand here by asking for a trade. Of course, Los Angeles doesn’t have to honor the request and grant him and his agent permission.

We will update this post when more information is available.

UPDATE: March 14, 2023 (12:35 PM CT)

It looks like Austin Ekeler is going to get his wish. According to Adam Schefter, the Chargers have given Ekeler permission to speak with other teams about a trade.

So, the NFL now has a touchdown machine in Ekeler available on the trade market.

Chargers granted permission to RB Austin Ekeler today to seek a trade after the two sides failed to make progress for a new contract, per his agent Cameron Weiss.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 14, 2023