Los Angeles Chargers star Austin Ekeler has hit out at the treatment he and other top running backs are receiving from their respective franchises.
Ekeler, who went undrafted in 2017 before being picked up by the Chargers, became just the fifth running back to have 100+ receptions in a season in 2022 and has been a fundamental part of Los Angeles' offence.
On The Rich Eisen Show, Ekeler discussed how running backs in the NFL are not paid the same as some other positions which have significantly less impact on the game.
"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?" said Ekeler.
"You're telling me these people are the No. 3 receivers and they're going to make more than me? And I'm the starter? I get more carries, I touch the ball more, I have more of an impact."
Ekeler is not the only running back currenlty seeking a better contract.
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley and Las Vegas Raiders' Josh Jacobs both had strong campaigns in 2022 and are threatening to hold out from training camp and potentially the 2023 season if they are not paid what they deem to be a fair amount.
"It seems like it’s about money, but it’s about principle, right?" added Ekeler.
"It’s about the principle of adding value to a team.
"When we don’t get that, absolutely, we’re going to fight back."
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