Identifying the Los Angeles Chargers' best and worst decisions during first wave of the 2025 free agency period
We're nearing the end of the first wave of the 2025 free agent period. While there are still several valuable players yet to be signed, most of the big names are already off the board. The Los Angeles Chargers have been in the mix a bit as they look to build upon their 11-win season […]
We're nearing the end of the first wave of the 2025 free agent period.
While there are still several valuable players yet to be signed, most of the big names are already off the board. The Los Angeles Chargers have been in the mix a bit as they look to build upon their 11-win season in 2024, which got them back to the playoffs as a wild-card team.
A to Z Sports' own Evan Winter and Sam Phalen are breaking down the best free agency moves for the AFC and the NFC thus far. What did they have to say about Chargers' GM Joe Hortiz moves so far? Let's take a look. . .
Best move: Signing RB Najee Harris
I'd say this is fairly obvious, but that doesn't make it any less of a great move. Harris should fit perfectly in offensive coordinator Greg Roman's system.
JK Dobbins and Gus Edwards provided the Chargers with an exciting ground attack in 2024 that complimented Justin Herbert nicely. The one thing that duo was missing was consistent availability. With both backs hitting free agency, Jim Harbaugh has found a reliable replacement in Najee Harris.
Harris has never missed a game in his NFL career and has totaled over 1,000 rushing yards in each of his four professional seasons. I love this fit, and I love it even more at the $5.25 million price tag the Chargers are paying in 2025. – A to Z Sports' Evan Winter and Sam Phalen
They pretty much hit the nail on the head. Harris is as consistent as they come, especially compared to Dobbins and Edwards. Harris' price tag is very reasonable, and if for whatever reason it doesn't work out, he's only on a one-year deal.
Worst move: Not spending more
Again, this is hard to argue against. The Chargers have the money, and they're not far off from being a legitimate championship contender.
The Chargers have $80 million in cap space available…What are we waiting for?! The 2024 Chargers exceeded expectations with 11 wins and making the playoffs in the first year under head coach Jim Harbaugh. You have the quarterback. You have the defense. Now is the time to supplement!
Letting Poona Ford walk is a mistake. You lost Josh Palmer and now really need to make a big splash at wide receiver. It’s a long offseason and the Chargers will have ample opportunity to improve their team, but fans have to be getting restless watching some of this talent come off the board while LA sits idly by. – A to Z Sports' Evan Winter and Sam Phalen
Los Angeles has since signed WR Mike Williams, who began his career with the Chargers from 2017-2023, but that doesn't move the needle much. Williams is not the same caliber player he used to be. They could have easily spent to get WR Davante Adams or tight end Evan Engram. Stefon Diggs and Cooper Kupp are also better pass catching options who are still unsigned.
Los Angeles Chargers’ full 2025 NFL Draft order is officially locked in after getting granted 3 compensatory picks
We’re just over one month away.
