The Los Angeles Chargers, under the leadership of newly appointed head coach Jim Harbaugh, are poised to make significant strides in the AFC West. Following an 11-win season and a playoff appearance with a roster hampered by salary cap constraints, the Chargers are generating considerable optimism among their fanbase.
Their offseason moves, including the signings of Najee Harris, Benjamin St-Juste, Mekhi Becton, and Andre James, have addressed roster depth. However, to truly contend in the AFC, the Chargers need to make impactful upgrades. The 2025 NFL Draft, with its 10 selections, including the 22nd overall pick, presents an opportunity to bolster their roster. Additionally, strategic trades could accelerate their ascent.
Los Angeles Chargers Trade For Mark Andrews In New Trade Idea
ESPN’s Bill Barnwell has proposed a trade scenario involving Los Angeles and the Baltimore Ravens, centered on tight end Mark Andrews. The proposed trade would see the Chargers acquire Andrews, the 27th overall pick in the 2025 first round, and a 2025 fourth-round pick, in exchange for guard Zion Johnson and the 22nd overall pick.
Chargers receive:
- TE Mark Andrews
- 2025 first-round pick (27th overall)
- 2025 fourth-round pick (136th overall)
Ravens receive:
- G Zion Johnson
- 2025 first-round pick (22nd overall)
This trade aligns with Jim Harbaugh’s offensive philosophy, which emphasizes a strong running game and play-action passing. While the Chargers’ current tight end group is adequate, Andrews would represent a significant upgrade, particularly as a receiving threat.
Andrews’ production in 2024, featuring 55 receptions, 673 yards, and 11 touchdowns, was solid, although his role in the offense slightly diminished. This can be attributed to the addition of running back Derrick Henry, whose presence naturally impacted Andrews’ target share, and the emergence of tight end Isaiah Likely, who had a career year. The Ravens may view Andrews as a tradeable asset, given Likely’s potential to assume the starting role.
Zion Johnson, a 2022 first-round pick, presents an intriguing element in the proposed trade. While his performance has been inconsistent, the Ravens, who are seeking to improve their offensive line depth, might find him valuable.
“Los Angeles, meanwhile, have prioritized their offensive line under both the Hortiz and Tom Telesco regimes, but Johnson hasn’t lived up to expectations,” Barnwell explained. “The 2022 first-round pick has been average in his career, and there are real questions about whether L.A. will want to pick up his fifth-year option, which would guarantee him $17.6 million in 2026. Andrews is the more prominent player, but Johnson might be equally as desirable given his youth and the recent positional importance of guards.”
Baltimore needs interior offensive line depth. If Baltimore added Johnson, they would gain a talented depth player at worst. Johnson has the upside to potentially win a starting spot.
This trade, if executed, would likely occur during the 2025 NFL Draft. The five-pick difference in the first round could significantly impact the quality of players available. An agreement in principle could be reached beforehand, with the final decision made on draft day.
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