The Los Angeles Chargers have taken a conservative approach to offseason spending, but a quick glance at their depth chart reveals major needs in a few key areas — offensive line and interior defensive line.
They also have a glaring need for a pass-catching tight end, but with Evan Engram choosing the Denver Broncos over Los Angeles that will need to be addressed via a trade or in the upcoming NFL Draft.
For those remaining spots options are still on the free agent market, now ripe for the picking.
Los Angeles Chargers Free Agency Must-Haves
Chargers Free Agency Target: DL, Calais Campbell
Throughout his remarkable 17-year career, spanning five different teams, Calais Campbell has consistently served as a vital, stabilizing presence. His recent approach to his career has been a testament to his enduring skill and reliability: he typically signs one-year contracts with teams seeking a complementary pass rusher, delivering at least five sacks, deflecting passes, and demonstrating his continued disruptive capabilities as he nears 40.
In 2023, with the Atlanta Falcons, Campbell recorded 6.5 sacks and 17 quarterback hits. The following year, with the Miami Dolphins, he contributed five sacks, 12 quarterback hits, and five batted passes. Notably, he played in all 34 games across those two seasons, showcasing his exceptional durability and consistent performance.
Chargers Free Agency Target: G, Mekhi Becton
Mekhi Becton’s 2024 season marked a notable turnaround in his career. Entering the market as a player with a history of inconsistency and injuries, and ranked 92nd on this list, he signed with the Philadelphia Eagles for $2.75 million, initially slated to play guard. His performance flourished under the tutelage of acclaimed offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland and alongside potential Hall of Fame right tackle Lane Johnson, culminating in a career-best season and setting the stage for a substantial raise.
Becton has openly praised the Eagles organization, raising the possibility of him accepting a slightly lower salary to remain in Philadelphia. However, Eagles’ General Manager Howie Roseman has a track record of seeking out the next undervalued player rather than paying top dollar for established talent. Becton’s strength lies in his run-blocking prowess, but his pass protection remains a work in progress. His 6.0 percent pressure rate allowed ranked 55th among guards with at least 200 pass-blocking snaps in 2024. Considering these factors, along with his extensive injury history, predicting Becton’s market value is challenging.
Chargers Free Agency Target: DL, Morgan Fox
The Los Angeles Chargers would be wise to prioritize re-signing Morgan Fox, a defensive lineman whose contributions have proven invaluable. His versatility and consistent productivity, particularly his ability to generate pressure and disrupt opposing offenses, make him a crucial asset to the team.
Fox has solidified his reputation as a reliable interior pass rusher, a fact underscored by his career-high 6.5 sacks achieved in a notable victory against the Rams. Beyond his pass-rushing abilities, Fox demonstrates significant value as a strong run defender, recording 24 run stops throughout the season. Furthermore, his 39 pressures highlight his overall impact on the game, showcasing his versatility and effectiveness in various defensive situations.
Subscribe to LAFB Network’s Los Angeles Chargers YouTube Channel