Following seven productive seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers, Austin Ekeler and the team decided to part ways on good terms. During the offseason, the Washington Commanders sought a dependable running back, coinciding with Ekeler’s quest for a new team. Eventually, they reached an agreement to join forces for the upcoming seasons.
After spending numerous years with the Chargers, Ekeler recently revealed the factors that influenced his decision to leave the team.
Austin Ekeler explains ‘misalignment’ led to Chargers exit
Austin Ekeler recently shared insights into his departure from the Los Angeles Chargers during an episode of the “God Bless Football” podcast. He stated the “misalignment” between his skill set and the team’s vision for the running back position, leading to his decision to explore other opportunities.
“The Chargers came to me and kinda told me what they were looking at in the RB position and it wasn’t what I can offer as a player. There was a misalignment.”
Ekeler racked up 1,000 total yards last season despite suffering from injuries. Nevertheless, the decision to part ways with the fan-favorite player left many Chargers fans discontented, given his contribution to the team.
The former Chargers player himself questioned the sincerity of the team’s interest in retaining him on the podcast. He was not shy about sharing concerns about being viewed as a fallback option.
“Yeah, they’re interested, but are you really? If all else fails, bring Austin back in type of thing? Because I don’t want to be in that scenario. If that’s your philosophy and what you’re telling me and I don’t fit that, I gotta look somewhere else.”
The Chargers’ offseason restructuring under new head coach Jim Harbaugh signaled a shift in roster composition and team culture. Ekeler’s departure marked one of several notable exits from the Chargers, including receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams.
What does Austin Ekeler’s Commander contract look like?
Austin Ekeler might not be efficient in holding his helmet properly during a brawl, but he has enough prowess to secure his career in the NFL, as he proved by getting a two-year, $8,430,000, million deal from the commanders. The average annual salary for Ekeler under this contract is $4,215,000, with $4,210,000 guaranteed at signing, per Spotrac.
His base salary for the 2024 season is $1,210,000, and he will also receive a $1,500,000 signing bonus. Additional components include a $420,000 roster bonus and a $100,000 workout bonus.
Ekeler’s base salary increases to $3,000,000 for the 2025 season, and he receives the same $1,500,000 signing bonus. Similarly, he receives a $510,000 roster bonus and a $100,000 workout bonus. Notably, there is a potential out clause in 2025, offering him the option of a one-year, $4,820,000 deal.
The former Chargers player will be a free agent in the 2026 season. Till then, it will remain to be seen how the commanders use his caliber and athleticism to change their losing culture.
