NFL rumors: 5 players who should be traded during the 2023 NFL Draft
NFL Rumors: Austin Ekeler trade should transpire during 2023 NFL Draft
Earlier this offseason as contract negotiations with the Los Angeles Chargers seemingly hit an impasse, star running back Austin Ekeler requested a trade. Since that time, though, there has been little word or movement regarding any sort of deal that would give the ultra-productive back a new home and set him up for a new deal.
However, ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler reported on Wednesday that there are numerous interested teams looking into an Austin Ekeler trade. The big holdup right now, however, has been the back’s desire for a new contract, which could be costly to any team that does end up making a trade with the Chargers.
At the same time, though, Ekeler has been one of the most productive running backs in the league over the last three years, particularly as a dual-threat player. While he hasn’t eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards in a season ever, he’s average 1,375 all-purpose yards per season, 4.5 yards per carry, and has scored 41 touchdowns over 43 games started in the past three years (he started just 10 games in 2020).
Soon to be 28 years old, Ekeler hasn’t shown signs of slowing down and, for an offense looking for a dynamic weapon in the backfield, he could be a real asset. The Chargers would surely love to find a trade partner for the running back to aid their draft haul and could get aggressive trying to make that happen.
Possible Landing Spots: Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bears, Miami Dolphins