Chargers News: NFL Columnist Questions Whether Team and Austin Ekeler Relationship is Tarnished

The Bolts and their starting running back are entering a key period after a contentious few months.

November 13, 2022; Santa Clara, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler (30) runs with the football against San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw (57) during the first quarter at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

It was a tough last few months for Los Angeles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler and the organization.

Ekeler, set to enter his 7th NFL season, came into the offseason looking to capitalize on his production with a contract extension.

Long story short, the Chargers and Ekeler could not hammer out a new deal, a development that spurred the longtime Bolt to request a trade in March.

Fast forward three months later, and Ekeler remains in Los Angeles absent a long term contract, set to enter the last season of the four-year, $24.5 million pact his signed in 2020.

While there is positive momentum -- new incentives were placed in his contract; and he told The Athletic in the spring that he wants to remain a Charger and hopes that the two sides "can get something done throughout the year" -- the two are entering a crucial period, one that CBS NFL writer Tyler Sullivan said could be a litmus test for where Ekeler truly stands.

It was nearly the end of Ekeler's tenure in Los Angeles after the back requested a trade in search of a new contract this offseason. That didn't come to fruition as the Chargers added some incentives to his contract, but we'll know for certain if/when he joins the team for minicamp. If things are still salty, this could be a storyline to follow all the way through the trade deadline. Also, Ekeler should still be a key piece to L.A.'s offense, so his presence is important as it installs Kellen Moore's new offense.

The Chargers two-day mandatory minicamp begins this Tuesday, June 13, and the team would have the right to fine their starting ball carrier if they chose, a potential option that would certainly draw a firm line in the sand for both sides.

That said, Ekeler's willingness to negotiate a new deal throughout the season -- something that's a departure from the usual course of business in past contract negotiations throughout the league -- looks to be a good sign for the Chargers as they head into the next stage of the offseason.

And if all goes right, Ekeler could be a Bolt beyond 2023.