Los Angeles Chargers RB Austin Ekeler requests trade

The Los Angeles Chargers‘ offseason took a turn Monday, as ESPN reported that running back Austin Ekeler has requested permission to speak with other NFL teams about a potential trade.

ESPN notes that Ekeler and the Chargers have been unable to make progress on a new contract. Ekeler, 27, is a free agent after the 2023 season.

The soon-to-be seventh-year running back has been a linchpin for the Chargers’ offense. This past season, Ekeler totaled 915 rushing yards, 722 receiving yards and 18 combined touchdowns.

Los Angeles is coming off a 10-7 season, which ended with a loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in the AFC wild-card round.

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