Chargers Insider Reveals LA's Sanguine Mindset Amidst Austin Ekeler's Trade Talks
We know much more about the Austin Ekeler contract negations with the Los Angeles Chargers now than we ever did before. Ekeler himself joined the 'Green Light Podcast' and that certainly helped clear the air a ton and gave the fans a better idea of why he chose to search for other teams.
However, we haven't received much insight from LA's front office themselves. It's been rumored that they are just treading carefully right now to avoid spending too much money and also want to start looking ahead to the draft. Fans were not all happy when the 24-year-old wasn't granted the contract he desired but Daniel Popper of The Athletic believes that LA had a greater plan in mind at this time.
Popper joined the "Locked On Chargers" podcast and discussed the strategy and knowledge he feels the Bolts used to their advantage.
"People are not willing to pay for running backs," said Popper. "That's why it feels like the Chargers gave him permission, 'Go look for it, go ahead.' Because they know damn well that they're not going to find a $12 million contract out there for a running back who's undersized and already take a beating so far in his career."
Ekeler has yet to engage in any serious conversations with opposing NFL teams to make a trade for and extend him so it does look like maybe the Chargers knew what they were getting into. I believe a trade or big extension going down this offseason gets more unlikely with every day that passes.
He is a great talent and should continue to improve this season with LA. Their roster has gotten better and they have held on to most of their important pieces. With Ekeler in the mix and some fresh faces from the draft, the Chargers could definitely make some more playoff noise.
Whether Ekeler is content with waiting another full season for his money or not, he may just have to go with this option for his career.
