Everything has been trending in the right direction for the 2024 Los Angeles Chargers, but we are merely months away from the end of this season and the kickoff to a whole new season. One of the first orders of business for the teams will be to sort out which free agents they, sign, re-sign, or allow to walk.
For LA, the biggest free agent questions are cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. and edge rusher Khalil Mack. Both were recently listed among ESPN’s 2025 NFL free agents: Early top-25 ranking and predictions. Samuel was listed as the 14th-best free agent and the fourth-best free agent corner, behind DJ Reed (4th overall), Charvarius Ward (5th), and Rasul Douglas. Mack was named the 17th-best free agent and the third-best edge rusher. Hassan Reddick was the top edge rusher (9th), then DeMarcus Lawrence at 15th.
ESPN’s Free Agency Breakdown: Chargers
Asante Samuel Jr, CB
2024 salary: $3.4 million
Age entering 2025 season: 25
Why he could get paid: Samuel has a playmaking mentality at the cornerback position, with the foot quickness and sudden closing speed to break on the ball. A shoulder injury has limited Samuel to just four games this season, but he has six interceptions and 26 pass breakups during his four years with the Chargers. — Bowen
What we’re hearing: Samuel is playing for a new Chargers regime, so there’s no telling how coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz will attack the offseason and strategize retaining key talent. But if Samuel hits free agency, there will be no shortage of teams needing a playmaker at cornerback. The Rams, Raiders, Vikings, and Buccaneers all come to mind. — Fowler
Khalil Mack, Edge
2024 salary: $19 million
Age entering 2025 season: 34
Why he could get paid: Mack’s game has aged gracefully in his 11th pro season. Mack has 4.5 sacks and 22 pressures this season, and he can still heat up the pocket. With 106 career sacks and steady play speed, Mack could be scooped up as a designated pass rusher. — Bowen
What we’re hearing: The demand for pass rushers is such that Mack should have viable options in free agency. Consistent veteran pass rushers command big money well into their 30s — think Von Miller signing with Buffalo a few years ago. The Chargers could certainly entertain extending Mack, but they also have Joey Bosa and Tuli Tuipulotu under contract. — Fowler
