Kyle Beckerman’s Future With RSL Still Uncertain

SANDY, Utah – Real Salt Lake captain, Kyle Beckerman, has a decision to make. His future at RSL is uncertain as his contract expired following the 2019 season. Beckerman, 37, has now played 12 seasons for the Claret and Cobalt, captaining the club for 11 of the 12 seasons.

He is a hero. The most recognizable face the club has ever had. His remarkable ability on the pitch, combined with his polite, quiet demeanor off the pitch has allowed the local fanbase to fall head over heels for the man they call “captain Kyle Beckerman”.

Tom Hackett with Kyle Beckerman, Tim Howard prior to 2019 Rocky Mountain Cup at Rio Tinto Stadium. Photo courtesy: Real Salt Lake

In 2019, to nobody’s surprise, Beckerman was a bonified starter in the center of the park playing alongside Everton Luiz. Appearing in 25 games, starting 24 of them, Beckerman did what Beckerman has done his entire career, compete. Every week, no matter the opponent, no matter the scenario, Beckerman would leave the pitch dripping in sweat.

However, despite Beckerman’s finest efforts to keep his body and health at a premium, it was evident that something was not quite right. Cracks started appearing, his speed and explosion were slowing down. His touch and calmness on the ball were starting to look more panicked and unorganized.

Kyle Beckerman was showing his age.

Make no mistake, RSL in 2020 would greatly benefit by having Beckerman on their roster. His experience and leadership qualities are priceless. However, at 37-years old, does Beckerman warrant a starting position in 2020? Or is he best suited to coming off the bench? Starting, say, a midweek game when you have three matches in a span of seven days.

Every professional athlete dreams about creating a legacy. Beckerman has already achieved that, by a lot. Every professional athlete also dreams about leaving the game on top. Nobody wants to be remembered by the fanbase as the player that should have retired years prior.

If Kyle Beckerman still thinks he has something to give, I sure hope he and the club can come to an agreement that his role may differ.