Chargers’ Austin Ekeler BAFFLED by how some ‘backup WRs’ earn more money than running backs amid Josh Jacobs and Saquon Barkley’s RB fiasco

The top-tier running backs in the NFL are struggling to secure a multi-year deal. Pro Bowl RBs like Saquon Barkley and Josh Jacobs were franchise tagged and couldn’t agree to a long-term contract extension before the franchise tag deadline on Monday. Amidst this, the Los Angeles Chargers RB Austin Ekeler has demanded answers from the league owners as to why they are hesitant to pay the running backs.

“From a player’s aspect, we have no control,” Ekeler said during a recent interview with Zach Gelb on CBS Sports Radio. “I have no control. So really who we want answers from is the ownership. Like, why are you doing this? What’s the reason? Like, you aren’t interviewing them about it. Like, how many owners have you talked to about this? Zero.”

Additionally, Ekeler, who has scored more touchdowns than any other player in the last 2 seasons, also questioned why his trade value is higher but his salary stays low. The Chargers tried to trade Ekeler in the off-season but they couldn’t find a trade partner who was willing to pay the asking price for the 28-year-old RB.

“It’s kind of interesting,” said Ekeler. “Where it’s like, ‘Oh if you’re gonna get traded, you gotta get traded at this level, but if we’re gonna keep you, we’re gonna keep you down at this level.'”

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Ekeler highlighted the clear pay disparity for different positions

In a candid expression of his feelings, the Chargers RB voiced his frustration regarding the way running backs and other not so eye-catching positions were being perceived and valued, particularly in comparison to other positions within the team.

“If I’m looking at some of the backup receivers out here that are still making more than me, that’s going to p–s me off, right?,” Ekeler represented the exact mindset that the current big RBs must be going through.

Ekeler had his career-best campaign in the 2022 season as he registered 915 rushing yards and 13 rushing touchdowns while averaging 4.5 yards per carry. He is entering the last year of his contract with the Chargers and will be a free agent following the 2023 season.

Austin Ekeler spoke up amidst Saquon Barkley and Josh Jacobs’ situation

Back in March, 6 players were franchise tagged by their respective teams. Among the 6, the 3 running backs Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs, and Tony Pollard couldn’t sign a multi-year deal.

The New York Giants‘ multi-year deal worth $14 million per year was rejected by Barkley per reports. Barkley, who had a Pro Bowl campaign last year, was reportedly not happy with the guaranteed salary in the contract.

The Las Vegas Raiders RB Josh Jacobs, who led the league in rushing yards last season, couldn’t secure a big deal and the Dallas Cowboys RB Tony Pollard decided to sign his $10.091 million worth franchise tag. Pollard will now play on the franchise tag. Barkley and Jacobs have a decision to make ahead of the 2023 season on whether or not to play for their teams under the franchise tag.

Amidst this, plenty of running backs, including the Chargers RB Austin Ekeler, who will be a free agent next year, have now raised their voice against the low pay grade of the talented athletes.

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