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**** Chargers Interminable Thread - Because No One Demanded It **** (2 Viewers)

Tau837 said:
Also saw a report that punter Scott re-signed for 2 years, $6M. 👍

Everything they have done that I am aware of so far was on my list:
  • Cut Bosa
  • Cut Edwards
  • Re-sign Mack
  • Re-sign Molden
  • Re-sign Scott
  • Re-sign Fisk
Still a lot to do. Unfortunately many of the big ticket free agent signings on my list aren't going to happen (WR Higgins, WR Adams, G Smith).
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It's upsetting to think that the WR room could actually be worse next year.
 
BoltNlava said:
Gr00vus said:
Ford signed with the Rams. :frown:

Palmer goes to Buffalo.

More holes to fill.
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With the way it's going it's looking like a 3 year build with one year down. Next year will be a down year with the year after looking better for playoff success.
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Palmer is jag. They must have plans to replace Ford somehow because he was nontrivial to the defenses success and they don't have an equivalent player on the roster.
 
Gr00vus said:
BoltNlava said:
Gr00vus said:
Ford signed with the Rams. :frown:

Palmer goes to Buffalo.

More holes to fill.
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With the way it's going it's looking like a 3 year build with one year down. Next year will be a down year with the year after looking better for playoff success.
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Palmer is jag. They must have plans to replace Ford somehow because he was nontrivial to the defenses success and they don't have an equivalent player on the roster.
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Yes but where are the WRs comming from? Also- The Dline taking hits right now with just 35 year old Mack holding fort. That seems to be a lot to ask with the draft. Right?
 
Gr00vus said:
BoltNlava said:
Gr00vus said:
Ford signed with the Rams. :frown:

Palmer goes to Buffalo.

More holes to fill.
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With the way it's going it's looking like a 3 year build with one year down. Next year will be a down year with the year after looking better for playoff success.
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Palmer is jag. They must have plans to replace Ford somehow because he was nontrivial to the defenses success and they don't have an equivalent player on the roster.
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Agree on Palmer. Crazy that the Bills gave him $12M/year. What an overpay.

Surprised and disappointed about Ford.
 
What's the view on Najee? Seems as though we are pursuing him. Not sure I'm thrilled with that. He seems really mid. I get he has numbers but they are 1,000/7 almost every year. Steelers run a lot, no?
 
BoltNlava said:
What's the view on Najee? Seems as though we are pursuing him. Not sure I'm thrilled with that. He seems really mid. I get he has numbers but they are 1,000/7 almost every year. Steelers run a lot, no?
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It’s official. 1 year deal. Another RB place holder, but hopefully more durable than Edwards.
 
Nick Vermeil said:
BoltNlava said:
What's the view on Najee? Seems as though we are pursuing him. Not sure I'm thrilled with that. He seems really mid. I get he has numbers but they are 1,000/7 almost every year. Steelers run a lot, no?
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It’s official. 1 year deal. Another RB place holder, but hopefully more durable than Edwards.
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Up to $9.5M for Harris but wouldn't go higher than $6M for Ford. Some of the bloom is coming off the rose with Hortiz for me.

Harris is okay. He got a lot of volume in Pittsburgh, so his accumulated numbers make him seem better than he has been. He is not better than Dobbins, though he is more durable.

Overall, today was disappointing.
 
I see the Chargers as having 34 players under contract who will make the final 53 man roster, barring injuries. If I assume 7 of the 10 draft picks make the final roster, that is 41 spots, leaving 12 currently unallocated.

I expect at least 7 of those will be taken by players like Heinicke, Dye, Niemann, Fehoko, Jefferson, Smartt, Sarell, etc., or equivalently inexpensive players. Leaving maybe 5 spots unallocated.

Accounting for all of those player cap hits plus dead money and in-season expenses, I estimate the Chargers have at least $45M to spend on those final 5 spots. Where are they going to spend that cap space?

If Mark Andrews were to be released, I expect some of it would go to signing him, but who knows the odds of that. Otherwise, I don't get sitting out of early free agency to this extent.
 
Tau837 said:
I see the Chargers as having 34 players under contract who will make the final 53 man roster, barring injuries. If I assume 7 of the 10 draft picks make the final roster, that is 41 spots, leaving 12 currently unallocated.

I expect at least 7 of those will be taken by players like Heinicke, Dye, Niemann, Fehoko, Jefferson, Smartt, Sarell, etc., or equivalently inexpensive players. Leaving maybe 5 spots unallocated.

Accounting for all of those player cap hits plus dead money and in-season expenses, I estimate the Chargers have at least $45M to spend on those final 5 spots. Where are they going to spend that cap space?

If Mark Andrews were to be released, I expect some of it would go to signing him, but who knows the odds of that. Otherwise, I don't get sitting out of early free agency to this extent.
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For some unknown reason this is how it's been. Dumpster diving for a diamond amongst the trash/mid players that are unclaimed. Not sure why this is or what is expected to change. No matter the coaching change or the available cap this is what happens (owners?). We almost never go after a big name in FA . I don't get it.
 
Tau837 said:
I see the Chargers as having 34 players under contract who will make the final 53 man roster, barring injuries. If I assume 7 of the 10 draft picks make the final roster, that is 41 spots, leaving 12 currently unallocated.

I expect at least 7 of those will be taken by players like Heinicke, Dye, Niemann, Fehoko, Jefferson, Smartt, Sarell, etc., or equivalently inexpensive players. Leaving maybe 5 spots unallocated.

Accounting for all of those player cap hits plus dead money and in-season expenses, I estimate the Chargers have at least $45M to spend on those final 5 spots. Where are they going to spend that cap space?

If Mark Andrews were to be released, I expect some of it would go to signing him, but who knows the odds of that. Otherwise, I don't get sitting out of early free agency to this extent.
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That is bizarre. Did they just miss on some guys or have a plan? Not sure what that plan would be besides trading for Higgins (which I am not sure is even an option).
 
Gr00vus said:
It's not a spectacular free agent class. Maybe they don't want to commit long term to any of these guys.
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Sure, let's say that is true. They ideally need upgrades at a number of full/part time starter spots:
  • RB 1a/b - to pair with Harris; not on roster
  • WR 2 - to upgrade Johnston and pair with McConkey; not on roster
  • TE 1a/b - to pair with Dissly; not on roster
  • RG - to replace Pipkins
  • IDL (NT) - to replace Ford
  • IDL (pass rusher) - to replace Fox
  • Edge 1a/b - to replace Joey and pair with Mack
Not to mention other key depth roles (WR, C, QB2, LB, CB, S). No way to adequately address all of that in one draft, hence the need to use the prodigious cap space to properly augment the draft and ideally do it to obtain multiple high quality starters.

So... what is the plan? :confused:

Here is another puzzling thing. We know this front office and coaching staff values the trenches. The Chargers clearly need OL upgrades to as many as all 3 starting IOL positions, and they clearly need 2 starter caliber IDL. Even ignoring all of the other positions, those are 5 positions in the trenches. More than anything, I am surprised that have made zero moves to address those needs so far.

Obviously, they aren't done. And I still have confidence in Hortiz. I'm just disappointed at what we know about his plan so far, since it feels like they have missed real opportunity to both improve the roster and starting lineup and set themselves up better for the draft.

I hope to be proven wrong.
 
I think it may be like @BoltNlava said above - they're not really playing for this year, it's just year 2 of a rebuild. I'm not a fan of wasting yet another year of Herbert's prime, but if there wasn't enough worth spending on in free agency that equates to a super bowl run this year (in their estimation), maybe it makes sense. Let's see what happens today.
 
Is this thread actually interminable? Can we test it ...?
What are you all's thoughts on Donald ... ... ... Parham?
 
travdogg said:
Gr00vus said:
Nick Vermeil said:
Welcome back Mike Williams.
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Welp all set at WR now.
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I'd argue Williams>Palmer, but yeah, expecting a WR in the first 3 draft picks.
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I just responded to you in the Williams thread. I will be very surprised if they take WR any earlier than the 3rd, and I could easily see them waiting until day 3.

They need an Edge to replace Bosa, a NT to replace Ford, and a pass rushing DT to replace Fox, unless they re-sign him. They also need to upgrade their IOL, ideally at multiple spots. They also need a RB 1b to complement Harris and a TE1a/b to pair with Dissly. All of these positions fit the front office and coaching staff philosophy - strong in the trenches, strong running game. It wouldn't surprise me in the least if they prioritize all of these positions higher than WR.

I have been surprised that they only addressed these positions with 1 signing so far, RB Harris. Maybe they will still address some of this in the second/third waves of free agency, but I don't think there are a lot of great options out there at this point.
 
Seems obvious at this point that they didn't love anyone in this FA class, and aren't willing to commit significant money or years to anyone in it. They want to build through the draft and are favoring using roster spots for rookies rather than mid tier gap filler free agents.

I like the long term thinking, but it will put a ceiling on their prospects this season unless they absolutely nail a majority of their 10 draft picks.
 
Gr00vus said:
Seems obvious at this point that they didn't love anyone in this FA class, and aren't willing to commit significant money or years to anyone in it. They want to build through the draft and are favoring using roster spots for rookies rather than mid tier gap filler free agents.

I like the long term thinking, but it will put a ceiling on their prospects this season unless they absolutely nail a majority of their 10 draft picks.
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While it may just be a case of the Spanos being cheap, I think it's the right approach for long term organizational health. They're not a couple free agents away from seriously threatening the behemoths of the AFC, so maximize the roll over and set sights 2-3 years down the line when the competition might start to descend down the bell curve. The Chargers are doing what the Broncos should be doing. Denver may have a better record in 2025 as a result of their moves, but they can't do enough to get to the top and are using all their funds anyway. The Bolts will be much better positioned to jump them sooner vs later.
 
Smartt going to the Jets. Only TEs under contract are Disly and Fisk. Some serious dumpster diving will be happening at this position if they don't address it early in the draft.
 
King of the Jungle said:
Gr00vus said:
Smartt going to the Jets. Only TEs under contract are Disly and Fisk. Some serious dumpster diving will be happening at this position if they don't address it early in the draft.
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Still hoping they find a way to pry Andrews away from Balt…reasonably
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:goodposting:

Andrews has a roster bonus due Monday, so presumably we will know by Monday if the Chargers can work out a trade for him. Fingers crossed...
 
Despyzer said:
Lining up 6'7" Mekhi Becton next to 6'8" Joe Alt should intimidate some edges on that side.
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It at least gives them a big body to throw at a weakness creating a little flexibility while drafting. Would like to see another weapon for Herbert prior to the draft but the options are thinning out.
 
This is the core of the final roster right now:
  • Offense (21):
    • QB (2) - Herbert, Heinicke
    • RB (3) - Harris, Vidal, Haskins
    • FB (1) - Matlock
    • WR (6) - McConkey, Williams, Johnston, Reagor, Davis, Rice
    • TE (2) - Dissly, Fisk
    • OL (7) - LT Slater, LG Johnson, C Bozeman, RG Becton, RT Alt, OL Pipkins, OL Salyer
      • I assume Becton slots in over Pipkins at RG, as opposed to replacing Johnson at LG
  • Defense (22):
    • Edge (3) - Mack, Tuipulotu, Dupree
    • IDL (5) - Hand, Tart, Jones, Ogbonnia, Eboigbe
      • Plus Matlock, though I think he will gravitate towards fulltime FB
    • LB (5) - Henley, Colson, Perryman, Dye, Phillips
    • CB (6) - Jackson, Still, Hart, St. Juste, Taylor, Leonard
    • S (3) - James, Gilman, Molden
  • Special Teams (3):
    • PK (1) - Dicker
    • P (1) - Scott
    • LS (1) - Harris
Observations:
  • Still need a RB, ideally a RB who can complement Harris in 2025 and move into RB1 role in 2026.
  • The WR group is weak, but as long as Williams is closer to his past level of play with the Chargers, it is stronger than the 2024 group. They could still add a WR, either in free agency or the draft, but IMO it should not be a priority with early draft picks.
  • They still need 2 TEs, including a TE1 or at least a 1a/1b to pair with Dissly. I'm hoping they trade for Mark Andrews this weekend and take TE out of consideration for their first round pick.
  • They still need at least 2 OL... they need 3 if they cut or trade Pipkins, as I think they should.
    • Ideally the additional OL would include a starting upgrade over Johnson or Bozeman. There has been talk of trying Johnson out at center, so signing another guard like Teven Jenkins would enable Johnson to try center with Bozeman as a fallback.
    • If they do cut Pipkins, they need a backup OT, and they could re-sign Sarell for that role.
  • They need a starting-caliber Edge, or at least a 2a/2b caliber player to pair with Tuli. They also need youth, since Mack and Dupree are both older. IMO this is the ideal use of the first round pick.
  • The IDL is weaker than last season as it stands right now, since right now, they have replaced Ford and Fox with Hand and Jones. This is another likely target for an early draft pick, possibly even the first round pick (Kenneth Grant?).
  • They are set at LB and could feel the same way at CB. I could see a day 3 pick at corner.
  • They need a 4th safety, so perhaps a day 3 pick.
A good draft might look like this (assuming the Chargers trade for Andrews):
  1. Draft pick 1.22 (22) - Edge Mykel Williams, Georgia - Edge 2 opposite Mack
  2. Draft pick 2.23 (55) - IDL Tyleik Williams, Ohio State - immediate strong rotation player; probably opens behind Hand
  3. Draft pick 3.22 (86) - RB TreVeyon Henderson, Ohio State or RB Cam Skattebo, Arizona State - RB2 to Harris but good playing time
  4. Draft pick 4.23 (125) - G Miles Frazier, LSU - depth player for 2025 but auditioning to replace Johnson in 2026
  5. Draft pick 5.22 (158) - WR Kyle Williams, Washington State Traded to BAL for Andrews
  6. Draft pick 6.5 (181) - IDL Vernon Broughton, Texas - may open behind Jones, but could surpass him as lead replacement for Fox; could actually push Jones or Eboigbe off the final roster
  7. Draft pick 6.23 (199) - C Jake Majors, Texas - could make final roster as backup center if Johnson and Bozeman both start; otherwise probably goes to practice squad
  8. Draft pick 6.33 (209) - S R.J. Mickens, Clemson - slots in as S4
  9. Draft pick 6.38 (214) - TE Orende Gadsden II, Syracuse - possible replacement for Smartt as TE4
  10. Draft pick 7.40 (256) - T Jack Nelson, Wisconsin - ends up on practice squad if team keeps Pipkins as depth player; if they cut Pipkins, as a shot at 9th OL spot over Sarell (assuming they re-sign Sarell to compete)
I'm not a good mock drafter, so I'm sure there are issues with this. I looked at PFF and Mock Draft Database draft rankings and NFL draft profile grades to try not to be too unrealistic. This illustrates how the draft can be used to shore up the current roster, even if these aren't the right players. The only position group in need that wasn't addressed here is WR. If the team isn't satisfied with what they have there, they could always sign another veteran to inject into the mix.

Thoughts?
 
They signed a center, Andre James, who pff gradef out worse than Bozeman last year. Depth I guess, some competition for the spot maybe, doesn't seem like the long term answer.
 
I like the Tyler Conklin signing. A little less stress to get an immediate contributor at TE in the draft. They're doing a great job of laying down a higher floor with the FA signings, without committing heavy years or dollars. They're putting themselves in good position to just draft best player available throughout the draft, start raising the ceiling with rookies. I think CB is starting to rise up the priority list in the draft, the guys behind Hart and Still aren't inspiring confidence.
 
Tau837 said:
King of the Jungle said:
Gr00vus said:
Smartt going to the Jets. Only TEs under contract are Disly and Fisk. Some serious dumpster diving will be happening at this position if they don't address it early in the draft.
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Still hoping they find a way to pry Andrews away from Balt…reasonably
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:goodposting:

Andrews has a roster bonus due Monday, so presumably we will know by Monday if the Chargers can work out a trade for him. Fingers crossed...
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I think Baltimore picked up his bonus after you posted this. From a place called Russell Street Report, with analysis:

Paid $4 Million Roster Bonus to TE Mark Andrews​

Remaining 2025 salary: $7 million

Analysis: The last two major tight end trades were T.J. Hockenson at the 2022 trade deadline and Darren Waller in March 2023. Both were moved for late Day 2 value, which is likely what the Ravens were seeking in exchange for Mark Andrews. With a strong TE draft class, no team wanted to move that much draft capital and pick up the $11 million remaining on his contract. Andrews could ask for an extension from his new team, too. With only $7 million left to pay, another team might be willing to meet the Ravens’ asking price, and we’ve seen the team keep trades under wraps until the draft. Still, after paying the roster bonus, Baltimore may prefer to ride out Andrews’ contract and collect a future compensatory pick when he hits free agency in 2026.

_______________________________________________

More places than this one have reported the same thing and given similar analyses of the situation. Possibly a later-round pick with salary being negotiated between the clubs.
 
As a Dallas Goedert GM and knowing that the Eagles want to move him, I'd like to think he would help both the Chargers offensive line and their passing game. He'd probably help the line more than Andrews, but I'm not sure if he's an upgrade in the passing game. But I don't think Andrews really blocks, so does Harbaugh really want him? We will find out.
 
rockaction said:
As a Dallas Goedert GM and knowing that the Eagles want to move him, I'd like to think he would help both the Chargers offensive line and their passing game. He'd probably help the line more than Andrews, but I'm not sure if he's an upgrade in the passing game. But I don't think Andrews really blocks, so does Harbaugh really want him? We will find out.
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Goedert is a better run blocker than Andrews, at least judging by PFF grades, but both of them have tailed off in recent seasons. However, Andrews was a good run blocker in Greg Roman's offense in Baltimore, then dropped off in Monken's offense. I suspect that has to do with the offensive scheme and coaching, not a loss of ability for Andrews. Not sure if there is any similar explanation for Goedert's dropoff.

I would be happy to get either of them, though doing that makes Conklin a bit player barring injury... and maybe not even guaranteed Conklin would make the final roster? I would have to see his contract details to know if that was feasible. Who knows, maybe Conklin would be included in any such trade.

Of course, Andrews is better than Goedert in the passing game, and he is nearly 2 years younger. I would rather the Chargers acquire him than Goedert, despite the fact that the price would be higher.

All that said, I'm content with a Dissly/Conklin pairing. That is a solid upgrade over last season's pairing of Dissly and Hurst (who couldn't stay healthy) and Stone Smartt.
 
Some media draft sources I like:

Dane Brugler at the Athletic ranked Hampton as the #2 RB and #29 overall player. From his draft profile:

With his NFL-ready frame, Hampton quickly reads the blocking scheme and collects his feet to accelerate through congestion or press and cut toward slivers of daylight. Once he gets north-south, he will mash the gas pedal into second-level defenders, but sometimes does so at the expense of his balance — and those heavy hits will take their toll over time. Overall, Hampton has only average creativity and is a tad tight in his hips and ankles, but he is a bruising runner with an effective blend of patience, power and speed. Given his reliability on passing downs, he is a complete player and should start as an NFL rookie.
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PFF ranked Hampton as the #2 RB and #25 overall player. From PFF's draft profile:

At 6 feet and 220 pounds, he brings ideal size to the position for the NFL. Hampton is also one of the class’ most physically gifted backs, boasting top-tier explosiveness for his size. He has a high missed tackles forced average, which is rooted in his ability to stay balanced and drive through contact. His vision as a runner can be hit-and-miss. He is better behind zone blocking (specifically, mid-zone plays) where he can hit a running lane with momentum.

When asked to truly read behind inside zone and gap concepts, Hampton can get impatient and get north before it is necessary. As a pass blocker, his 2023 grades were better than his 2024 marks, but he has the frame to do it. He is also a good option out of the backfield as a receiver.

Bottom Line

Hampton is one of the class' most physically gifted running backs with his combination of size, explosiveness and lower-body strength. He can be a productive slasher type of runner behind zone schemes, but his overall vision could make him a boom-or-bust producer, depending on his offensive line.
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Lance Zeuerlein at nfl.com ranked Hampton as the #3 RB and tied for #38 overall player with a 6.35 grade. From his draft profile:

High-volume battering ram with a three-ingredient recipe of size, strength and aggression. Hampton is a linear runner lacking creativity and wiggle, but once the gas is engaged, he runs like a downhill truck whose brake lines have been cut. He has the base, balance and power to batter tacklers and reignite runs after contact but he fails to recognize alternative run lanes that offer easier paths and more yardage. He needs to work on his pass protection but can create positive plays on swing passes and screens. Hampton is a tone-setting future starter who can handle a heavy workload, but he absorbs rare levels of heavy contact that could create durability or longevity issues if he doesn’t learn to pick and choose his battles.

NFL Comparison: Rhamondre Stevenson
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Sports Info Solutions ranked Hampton as the #2 RB and #7 overall player with a 6.8 grade. From SIS's draft profile:

Pass Game
Hampton has good ability in the passing game and can serve as a legitimate three-down back at the next level. He has smooth, easy hands for a running back and is near seamless when going from a receiver to a runner. He was used a good amount in the screen game at North Carolina and was able to break off monster gains when catching the ball in space. Hampton will not need to leave the field on obvious passing downs at the next level, as he shows good pass pro ability as well. His technique is sound as he looks to square defenders up and is not afraid to stick his nose in and mix it up. While he does not show great aggression as a protector he is careful not to overextend himself to avoid whiffs when blocking.

Run Game
Hampton runs the ball with a combo of nasty demeanor coveted in running backs and a gliding style when he gets into space. He shows the ability to run in a variety of schemes, but was mostly used in zone schemes at North Carolina and does his best work out of those looks. Hampton has good vision overall and especially excels at finding creases in zone runs and hitting cutback lanes. He has good play speed overall; he is not the twitchiest player when it comes to stopping and starting on a dime, but he shows plus burst and has the long speed required to turn modest gains into touchdowns. His contact balance is very good which makes it extremely difficult for defenders to take him down without wrapping up and gang tackling. He has solid elusiveness and especially excels at manipulating pursuing defenders in the open field before making them miss.
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There are a couple mentions there that make it sound like he is better behind zone blocking, which is mostly what UNC used in his college career. But this is Harbaugh and Hortiz. They obviously would not draft him at 22 without full confidence that he fits Roman's scheme.

My take:

As for my take on the pick, I don't love it, but I understand it, with all of these players off the board:
  • RB: Jeanty
  • TE: Loveland, Warren
  • WR: Hunter, McMillan, Egbuka
  • OL: Zabel
  • IDL: Graham, Grant, Nolen, Harmon
  • Edge: Carter, Williams, Walker, Stewart
The board was not kind, with only 1 QB, 5 OL, and 1 DB going and LB Campbell not going before 22. I was very disappointed when the Steelers took Harmon at 21.

I understand that the Chargers considered trading down in the first round with Buffalo and Philadephia (and others?) but did not get whatever they wanted. I would love to know what offers they had. I suspect I would have taken one of them.

As for fit on the Chargers, I expect Hampton will start out as RB 1b to Harris's 1a, but I think Hampton will overtake Harris for the 1a role fairly quickly if healthy. I expect this means Harris will be with the Chargers for just one year, and Hampton will become a true feature RB in 2026.

In order for Hampton to fulfill expectations, he will have to be the best NFL RB who ever played at UNC. Today, that distinction probably goes to Natrone Means or Javonte Williams. I hate that I have to root for an ex-UNC player now, but I will take satisfaction in the fact that Hampton was 0-3 vs. NC State.

Harris:

In hindsight, I don't like Harris being one of the Chargers' premium veteran free agent signings and then also investing pick 22 at the same position. But that is hindsight, so I can't really fault the Chargers for it. I assume they expected to draft another position at 22 and add more of a complementary RB later in the draft.

I assume this makes Harris much less likely to reach the incentives in his contract, so the Chargers will probably save a bit of cap space there. But I also suspect this will depress Harris's market value a bit next offseason, lowering the potential comp pick value he might generate.

Vidal:

This seems to be bad news for Vidal. Hard to see him getting offensive snaps if both Hampton and Harris are healthy, and Vidal only played 6 snaps on special teams last season. Sitting here right now, I don't think he will make the final 53 man roster. I could see him maybe making the practice squad, but even that doesn't seem like a given.

Conclusion:

The good news about this is that Hampton seems to be a great fit for the identity Harbaugh wants for this team. Hopefully he will be better than a Harris level RB, and the Chargers now have him in place for 4-5 seasons, and should not have to worry about the RB position again for years.

Day 2:

Hoping for:

  • Trading up, adding a 3rd day 2 pick and/or trading day 3 pick(s) for Mark Andrews. Not sure both are possible, but hoping for one of these to happen.
  • Drafting 1 Edge and 1 IDL player. If they end up with a 3rd day 2 pick, I could see any of WR, TE (if not trading for Andrews), or G. But I would personally prioritize Edge and IDL above those positions, assuming the board supports it.
 
The Chargers pulled the Falcons 24 move of signing a good FA and then drafting his replacement in rd 1. RB will overtake faster than qb too.
 
After last year's draft and UDFA signings, the Chargers:
  1. Signed WR Chark (5/6)
  2. Signed Edge Dupree (5/13)
  3. Signed OL Leatherwood (5/29)
  4. Signed S Jefferson (6/14)
  5. Signed IDL Tart (8/16)
  6. Claimed RB Haskins off waivers (8/28)
  7. Traded for S Molden (8/29)
  8. Traded for QB Heinicke (8/29)

All but Leatherwood and Jefferson made the final 53 man roster, and Jefferson obviously stuck with the team. So chances are that there will be more moves to come, which makes it difficult to project the final roster.

But here is a look at what it might look like:
  • Offense (26)
    • QB (3) - Herbert, Heinicke, Lance
      • Would prefer to see them go with two but can't see Lance as QB2... the Chargers gave Lance $1.5M guaranteed, which suggests he will make the final roster
    • RB (3) - Harris, Hampton (R), Haskins
      • Vidal is odd man out since he does not play special teams
      • Will they really go with just 3 RBs? If they keep a 4th, have to cut somewhere else
    • FB (1) - Matlock
    • WR (6) - McConkey, Williams, Harris (R), Johnston, Lambert-Smith (R), Davis
      • Don't see carrying 7 WRs with this group, especially since Gadsden plays a lot like a big WR
      • Would love to cut Davis, since he looks even further away from getting any meaningful snaps or role other than returning kickoffs and punts than it appeared last year at this time... does anyone else on the roster have return experience?
      • Don't see Rice beating out Lambert-Smith... he and/or Reagor could make the practice squad
    • TE (4) - Dissly, Conklin, Gadsden (R), Fisk
    • OL (9) - LT Slater, LG Johnson, C Bozeman, RG Becton, RT Alt, C/G James, G/T Salyer, G/T (swing tackle) Pipkins, G/T Taylor (R)
  • Defense (24)
    • Edge (4) - Mack, Tuipulotu, Kennard (R), Dupree
    • IDL (5) - Caldwell (R), Tart, Hand, Jones, Eboigbe
      • I'm showing here that Ogbonnia, who is the only player in this group held over from the Telesco/Staley regime, won't make it... tough call
      • Matlock may also contribute here... that versatility makes it easier to release Ogbonnia
    • LB (5) - Henley, Colson, Perryman, Dye, Phillips
    • CB (6) - Jackson, Hart, Still, Leonard, St. Juste, Taylor
      • I could see Taylor not making it but I think they will carry 6 CBs and I'm not sure if any of the other CBs currently on the 90 man roster or rookie Bridges can beat him out... maybe a good area to target with a veteran free agent signing... or could the team go with 5 CBs and 5 safeties and keep Jefferson over Taylor?
    • S (4) - James, Gilman, Molden, Mickens (R)
      • I'm thinking Mickens is a long term player for the team, so thinking he beats out Jefferson
  • Special Teams (3)
    • PK (1) - Dicker
    • P (1) - Scott
    • LS (1) - Harris

I didn't show any UDFAs making it here. I don't know enough about them yet to know if any have a realistic chance. If any one of them was to make it, someone I listed has to be removed. It's a tight numbers game.

If the Chargers needed 2025 cap space, I might identify a couple possible cap casualties, but they don't appear as if they are going to spend close to what they already have available.

The offense should be quite a bit better, which is a good thing, since it appears to me that the defense will be worse.

Thoughts?
 
Last edited:
Tau837 said:
After last year's draft and UDFA signings, the Chargers:
  1. Signed WR Chark (5/6)
  2. Signed Edge Dupree (5/13)
  3. Signed OL Leatherwood (5/29)
  4. Signed S Jefferson (6/14)
  5. Signed IDL Tart (8/16)
  6. Claimed RB Haskins off waivers (8/28)
  7. Traded for S Molden (8/29)
  8. Traded for QB Heinicke (8/29)

All but Leatherwood and Jefferson made the final 53 man roster, and Jefferson obviously stuck with the team. So chances are that there will be more moves to come, which makes it difficult to project the final roster.

But here is a look at what it might look like:
  • Offense (26)
    • QB (3) - Herbert, Heinicke, Lance
      • Would prefer to see them go with two but can't see Lance as QB2... the Chargers gave Lance $1.5M guaranteed, which suggests he will make the final roster
    • RB (3) - Harris, Hampton (R), Haskins
      • Vidal is odd man out since he does not play special teams
      • Will they really go with just 3 RBs? If they keep a 4th, have to cut somewhere else
    • FB (1) - Matlock
    • WR (6) - McConkey, Williams, Harris (R), Johnston, Lambert-Smith (R), Davis
      • Don't see carrying 7 WRs with this group, especially since Gadsden plays a lot like a big WR
      • Would love to cut Davis, since he looks even further away from getting any meaningful snaps or role other than returning kickoffs and punts than it appeared last year at this time... does anyone else on the roster have return experience?
      • Don't see Rice beating out Lambert-Smith... he and/or Reagor could make the practice squad
    • TE (4) - Dissly, Conklin, Gadsden (R), Fisk
    • OL (9) - LT Slater, LG Johnson, C Bozeman, RG Becton, RT Alt, C/G James, G/T Salyer, G/T (swing tackle) Pipkins, G/T Taylor (R)
  • Defense (24)
    • Edge (4) - Mack, Tuipulotu, Kennard (R), Dupree
    • IDL (5) - Caldwell (R), Tart, Hand, Jones, Eboigbe
      • I'm showing here that Ogbonnia, who is the only player in this group held over from the Telesco/Staley regime, won't make it... tough call
      • Matlock may also contribute here... that versatility makes it easier to release Ogbonnia
    • LB (5) - Henley, Colson, Perryman, Dye, Phillips
    • CB (6) - Jackson, Hart, Still, Leonard, St. Juste, Taylor
      • I could see Taylor not making it but I think they will carry 6 CBs and I'm not sure if any of the other CBs currently on the 90 man roster or rookie Bridges can beat him out... maybe a good area to target with a veteran free agent signing... or could the team go with 5 CBs and 5 safeties and keep Jefferson over Taylor?
    • S (4) - James, Gilman, Molden, Mickens (R)
      • I'm thinking Mickens is a long term player for the team, so thinking he beats out Jefferson
  • Special Teams (3)
    • PK (1) - Dicker
    • P (1) - Scott
    • LS (1) - Harris

I didn't show any UDFAs making it here. I don't know enough about them yet to know if any have a realistic chance. If any one of them was to make it, someone I listed has to be removed. It's a tight numbers game.

If the Chargers needed 2025 cap space, I might identify a couple possible cap casualties, but they don't appear as if they are going to spend close to what they already have available.

The offense should be quite a bit better, which is a good thing, since it appears to me that the defense will be worse.

Thoughts?
Click to expand...
Controlling the LOS is everything in football. Always has been. This will be a team that has a clear goal to shorten the game, control the ball on the ground and have a great ability to go over the top off play action.

To compensate for a supposed weaker defense...the running game will be critical.

Herbert should have a very good year (not fantasy talk but real football talk). From week 8 on he really turned it up in 2024 once they found their rhythm with Harbough's system. I think the Chargers are a post season contender and can win a game or two in the postseason if they can stay relatively healthy.

I am a huge Justin Herbert fan. I think he finally shows what he is all about in terms of leadership and putting the team on his back when needed. When you have a great running game....all kinds of possibilities open up in the passing game and it can overcome some deficiencies on defense.
 
Tau837 said:
After last year's draft and UDFA signings, the Chargers:
  1. Signed WR Chark (5/6)
  2. Signed Edge Dupree (5/13)
  3. Signed OL Leatherwood (5/29)
  4. Signed S Jefferson (6/14)
  5. Signed IDL Tart (8/16)
  6. Claimed RB Haskins off waivers (8/28)
  7. Traded for S Molden (8/29)
  8. Traded for QB Heinicke (8/29)

All but Leatherwood and Jefferson made the final 53 man roster, and Jefferson obviously stuck with the team. So chances are that there will be more moves to come, which makes it difficult to project the final roster.

But here is a look at what it might look like:
  • Offense (26)
    • QB (3) - Herbert, Heinicke, Lance
      • Would prefer to see them go with two but can't see Lance as QB2... the Chargers gave Lance $1.5M guaranteed, which suggests he will make the final roster
    • RB (3) - Harris, Hampton (R), Haskins
      • Vidal is odd man out since he does not play special teams
      • Will they really go with just 3 RBs? If they keep a 4th, have to cut somewhere else
    • FB (1) - Matlock
    • WR (6) - McConkey, Williams, Harris (R), Johnston, Lambert-Smith (R), Davis
      • Don't see carrying 7 WRs with this group, especially since Gadsden plays a lot like a big WR
      • Would love to cut Davis, since he looks even further away from getting any meaningful snaps or role other than returning kickoffs and punts than it appeared last year at this time... does anyone else on the roster have return experience?
      • Don't see Rice beating out Lambert-Smith... he and/or Reagor could make the practice squad
    • TE (4) - Dissly, Conklin, Gadsden (R), Fisk
    • OL (9) - LT Slater, LG Johnson, C Bozeman, RG Becton, RT Alt, C/G James, G/T Salyer, G/T (swing tackle) Pipkins, G/T Taylor (R)
  • Defense (24)
    • Edge (4) - Mack, Tuipulotu, Kennard (R), Dupree
    • IDL (5) - Caldwell (R), Tart, Hand, Jones, Eboigbe
      • I'm showing here that Ogbonnia, who is the only player in this group held over from the Telesco/Staley regime, won't make it... tough call
      • Matlock may also contribute here... that versatility makes it easier to release Ogbonnia
    • LB (5) - Henley, Colson, Perryman, Dye, Phillips
    • CB (6) - Jackson, Hart, Still, Leonard, St. Juste, Taylor
      • I could see Taylor not making it but I think they will carry 6 CBs and I'm not sure if any of the other CBs currently on the 90 man roster or rookie Bridges can beat him out... maybe a good area to target with a veteran free agent signing... or could the team go with 5 CBs and 5 safeties and keep Jefferson over Taylor?
    • S (4) - James, Gilman, Molden, Mickens (R)
      • I'm thinking Mickens is a long term player for the team, so thinking he beats out Jefferson
  • Special Teams (3)
    • PK (1) - Dicker
    • P (1) - Scott
    • LS (1) - Harris

I didn't show any UDFAs making it here. I don't know enough about them yet to know if any have a realistic chance. If any one of them was to make it, someone I listed has to be removed. It's a tight numbers game.

If the Chargers needed 2025 cap space, I might identify a couple possible cap casualties, but they don't appear as if they are going to spend close to what they already have available.

The offense should be quite a bit better, which is a good thing, since it appears to me that the defense will be worse.

Thoughts?
Click to expand...
I’d feel a lot better about it if Ford was still listed on the DL and maybe even if Samuel was with the DBs. They are going to have money left over most likely.
 
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