NFL Trade Rumors: Mike Florio breaks down why Austin Ekeler is unlikely to get a lucrative contract

Lamar Jackson and Aaron Rodgers are the talk of the town when it comes to trade requests, but another offensive star is not to be left behind.

Last month, running back Austin Ekeler requested a trade out of the Los Angeles Chargers, saying he felt "punched in the face" when the team refused to discuss a new contract with him. He is entering the final year of a $24.5 million deal he signed in 2020.

Given his role in the Chargers' offense, it would not be unwise to say that Ekeler deserves a better contract. But speaking on NBC's Pro Football Talk, sports writer and commentator Mike Florio explained why this might not happen:

“This is a reality of the position and I feel like he's creeping toward acceptance, as he cycles through the stages of grief as it relates to the position that he plays in the NFL. He's not going to get a new contract, he's not going to get the money that he thinks he deserves. He deserves it, in a vacuum, yes, but as it relates to the position, he plays the abundance of available running backs.

"The fact that you can find guys who can do the things Austin Ekeler does, he was undrafted, his career is one of the best arguments for not paying him. We can find another Austin Ekeler, there are and you use the cliche from time to time they don't grow on trees, of any position in the NFL, kicker and punter, running backs grow on trees.”

According to the latest trade rumors, the Chicago Bears are the front runners to acquire Ekeler. They already have D'Onta Foreman and Khalil Herbert (plus Kyle Fields) on the ground, and they traded the #1 pick for highly-touted wide receiver DJ Moore. Adding Ekeler and his dual-threat abilities would make Chicago an offensive juggernaut.

How productive was Austin Ekeler in 2022?

Austin Ekeler had a huge 2022 campaign

Austin Ekeler was very prolific last year, setting new career-highs in both yards from scrimmage (1,637) and receptions (107) and leading the league in total touchdowns (18 - 13 rushing and 5 receiving). He was the leading rusher on a team that finished third to last on the ground.

Losing Ekeler, therefore, would be a huge blow to the Chargers' offense, especially if they cannot acquire a proven RB, whether it be through the draft, free agency, or trade, as it would force them to put more of the burden on Justin Herbert.