Chargers Young Running Back Isaiah Spiller Discusses Rookie Year Woes

He needs to make the most of his second season.

One of the least talked about parts of sports is how tough it is to break through in the pros. Obviously, it’s extremely hard even to make it to the professional league, but staying there is an entirely different story.

In the National Football League, young players get limited chances to prove their worth. One mistake and it could sideline them for an entire season. One opportunity that isn’t taken advantage of could backtrack their careers.

For Los Angeles Chargers young running back Isaiah Spiller, his rookie season was a bit of a struggle. He was one of the better backs in college football, but things changed for him once he got to the NFL.

Now, heading into his second season, he is once again having to try and win a spot to be a backup. Spiller recently opened up about his struggles during his first year in the NFL.

“It was just a lot to handle,” Spiller said.

Per The Athletic

He only received 18 carries during his first season with the Bolts, amounting to 41 yards rushing. The rookie was limited to just six games and didn’t score a touchdown last season.

“Spiller also sprained his ankle in a preseason game and was inactive for the first six regular-season games. All those factors led to an underwhelming rookie season. His talent, though, is undeniable. And we certainly saw flashes of that during this training camp and preseason. This should be an ongoing battle for offensive snaps through the season.”

Per Daniel Popper of The Athletic

He now gets another chance to prove himself to the Chargers organization. But in reality, he isn’t just playing for them whenever he does step onto the field. He is auditioning for the other 31 teams anytime he gets a chance to play. 

The NFL is an unrelenting league, so Spiller will need to take advantage of any opportunities he gets this season. His future in the league depends on it, especially with how the running back position is valued nowadays.