Chargers’ undrafted free agent could be in position to snatch job from former first-round pick
A second-year Chargers UDFA signee has had an impressive offseason. Now, it’s time for it all to come together when it counts, and if that happens, it could lead to a notable name clawing to keep his job.
The Los Angeles Chargers have certainly made waves on the offensive side of the ball this offseason. Much of that comes from the addition of new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel.
The former Miami Dolphins head coach has been working with Justin Herbert in the hopes of helping the Chargers’ franchise quarterback carry the team to its first playoff win since a 23-17 win over the Baltimore Ravens back in January 2019.
However, another quarterback has been quietly having a strong offseason, and that’s former Clemson and Florida State QB DJ Uiagalelei.
ESPN listed one surprise player for each NFL team, and Uiagalelei got the nod for the Chargers.
QB DJ Uiagalelei named Chargers’ surprise offseason player by ESPN
“With Justin Herbert throwing little this offseason while focusing on footwork and mechanics, Uiagalelei has taken advantage of his reps,” wrote ESPN’s Kris Rhim. “The former undrafted free agent has been one of the Chargers’ most impressive players, thriving on intermediate and deep throws. If that carries into training camp, Uiagalelei could challenge Trey Lance for the backup job.”
The Chargers signed Uiagalelei as an undrafted free agent after the 2025 NFL Draft. Los Angeles kept two quarterbacks on their 53-man roster last year, with Uiagalelei signing with the team’s practice squad.
There’s never been any question that Uiagalelei has the physical tools to be a successful quarterback. At 6’4, 252 lbs and with a strong arm, he’s got the potential. It’s been about accuracy and decision making. We’ve seen the light bulb come on later for players, and in some cases, such as with Sam Darnold and Geno Smith, it comes on brightly.
If Uiagalelei can keep this momentum going, we could see a legitimate QB camp battle for the QB2 job with former first round pick Trey Lance, who won the backup role in 2025. Perhaps, if Uiagalelei doesn’t win it, it’s still a fight that results in LA keeping three quarterbacks this time around rather than two.
But in any event, early indications show that Lance may have more of a run for his money this summer than he did a year ago.