Subscribe
Follow Us
With the 2020 season right around the corner, teams in the NFL are making roster cuts to get down to the required number of players. Amid all of the moves being made, Austin Ekeler of the Los Angeles Chargers shared his inspiring message for undrafted free agents that are being released.
Good luck to all the UDFA’s out there today. No matter what you hear today, it doesn’t define you as a person, a football player, or as a success/failure. Mental fortitude.
— Austin Ekeler (@AustinEkeler) September 5, 2020
For those that don't know, Ekeler began his career as an undrafted free agent in 2017 with the Chargers. Coming out of Western State, Ekeler was viewed as a longshot to make Los Angeles' roster. However, after a strong showing in training camp and the preseason, he earned a roster spot.
Three years after signing with the Chargers as an undrafted rookie, Austin Ekeler is now the No. 1 running back for the Chargers. He also received a four-year, $24.5 million extension this offseason following his career year in 2019.
Article Continues Below
Of course, with COVID-19 causing concerns, the NFL was unable to conduct a preseason in 2020. At the same time, the offseason was shortened and undrafted free agents were unable to have much time to prove themselves worthy of a roster spot.
The lack of an offseason was something that Ekeler spoke out on earlier this year. The versatile running back stated that he doesn't know if he would've made the roster in 2017 without OTAs.
Cut day in the NFL is a sad day with some players seeing their dream of playing football come to an end. While it is tough for some players to deal with the idea of being released, Ekeler is a walking testimony that there can be an opportunity for everyone if you keep pushing for it.
