Story by
Chargers Must Be Sellers Before the Trade Deadline
- Story by
- Chargers Must Be Sellers Before the Trade Deadline
(Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)
The Los Angeles Chargers have reached a point where there really isn't much left to debate. After falling to 0-7 with Sunday's 24-9 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, the Chargers need to start thinking about the future. With the NFL trade deadline approaching on November 10, general manager Joe Hortiz has an opportunity to make some moves that could benefit this organization well beyond the 2026 season.
At this point, continuing to hold onto veteran players in hopes of turning things around doesn't make much sense. The Chargers aren't a team that is one or two pieces away from competing. They have significant questions on both sides of the football and need to start accumulating assets to address those problems.
Advertisement
Khalil Mack is the most obvious player who should be available. The veteran pass rusher is playing on a one-year contract and could be an attractive addition for several playoff contenders looking to improve their defense. Mack still has plenty to offer and deserves an opportunity to compete for a championship. Rather than potentially losing him for nothing after the season, the Chargers should see what they can get in return.
There are other players worth considering as well. Donte Jackson, Denzel Perryman and Dalvin Tomlinson are among the veterans who could generate interest from teams looking for defensive help. Bud Dupree could also be an option. The Chargers need to be realistic about their situation and recognize that getting something in return for players who might not be part of their long-term plans is better than letting those assets walk away.
There could even be opportunities to explore deals involving players on offense. Quentin Johnston has struggled with consistency, but his age and draft pedigree could make him appealing to a team willing to take a chance on a change of scenery. Running backs Keaton Mitchell and Kimani Vidal could also draw interest depending on what other teams need heading into the final stretch of the season.
Of course, this doesn't mean the Chargers should trade everyone or completely tear down the roster. Justin Herbert remains the franchise quarterback and should be a central part of whatever comes next. Young players who can contribute to the team's future should remain in place. The goal should be to move players whose value is greater to another team right now than it is to the Chargers over the next several years.
Advertisement
Joe Hortiz has shown reluctance to move on from players, even with teams reportedly calling about potential deals earlier in the season. That approach made more sense when there was still some hope of salvaging the season. After seven straight losses, that time has passed.
The Chargers need to stop treating this like a season that can still be turned around. The coaching staff, roster construction and overall direction of the organization all need serious evaluation. Adding a few more losses while keeping veterans who could bring back future draft picks accomplishes very little.
The November 10 deadline gives Hortiz one final opportunity to make meaningful changes before the offseason. The Chargers don't need another short-term fix. They need more draft capital, younger talent and a better foundation moving forward. Being sellers isn't giving up on the organization. It's recognizing that the current approach isn't working and taking the necessary steps to build something better.
