RSS Chargers Team Notes

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers draft class earns positive grade from analyst

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 11: Omarion Hampton #8 of the Los Angeles Chargers warms up prior to an NFL wild card playoff football game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Los Angeles Chargers are coming off of a second consecutive playoff appearance, and part of that is a result of the team’s positive rookie class from the 2025 draft.

The Chargers selected North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton, Ole Miss wide receiver Tre Harris, Oregon defensive tackle Jamaree Caldwell, South Carolina outside linebacker Kyle Kennard, Auburn wide receiver Ke’Andre Lambert-Smith, Syracuse tight end Oronde Gadsden II, Pittsburgh offensive lineman Branson Taylor, Clemson defensive back R.J. Mickens and Florida cornerback Trikweze Bridges, who is the only one not currently on the roster.

NFL.com analyst Gennaro Filice conducted a report card grading all 32 rookie classes. He gave the Chargers a B for their first-year pros, which ranked No. 12 in the league.

“An ankle injury disrupted Omarion Hampton’s rookie campaign, but durability was never a concern during his wildly productive tenure at North Carolina, so I’m not going to start worrying about that now. A beastly back at 220 pounds, Hampton runs with the kind of aggression that makes defenders ponder business decisions. Among all NFL RBs who finished the regular season with at least 100 carries, Hampton posted the fourth-highest missed tackle rate (29.8%, per NGS),” Filice wrote.

“This is a bell cow who was born for Jim Harbaugh’s pasture — a violent runner who can take some of the immense offensive burden off Justin Herbert’s shoulders. The Chargers also unearthed a mismatch weapon for the franchise quarterback midway through Day 3 of the draft, as Oronde Gadsden II flashed the ability to take over games as a fifth-round rookie. With Jamaree Caldwell and R.J. Mickens immediately contributing to Los Angeles’ defense, Joe Hortiz compiled his second deep draft haul in as many seasons as Bolts GM.”

The only teams that ranked higher than the Chargers in this report card were the Dallas Cowboys, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Carolina Panthers, New England Patriots, New York Jets, Tennessee Titans, New York Giants, New Orleans Saints, Seattle Seahawks, Cleveland Browns and Chicago Bears.

Teams that draft well tend to stay at the top of the hierarchy in the NFL, so the Chargers need to continue this streak of strong draft classes. The more picks Hortiz and the front office hit on, the more likely they are to maintain a competitive roster for Super Bowl contention.

When the Chargers and the rest of the NFL go to the Combine later this month, they will get a better idea of who is in the rookie class and which players could make sense for building towards the future.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...draft-class-earns-positive-grade-from-analyst

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

NFL owners win grievance against NFLPA, team report cards

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 8: A general view of the NFL logo painted on the field prior to the NFL Super Bowl LX football game between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Well, one of the most fun and transparent things to ever come from the NFL has been killed in court.

On Friday, the NFL sent out a memo to all 32 NFL teams announcing that the grievance against the NFLPA and its “team report cards” was successful. Per the memo, an arbitrator determined that the report cards violate the CBA and ordered the NFLPA to cease the creation of any future report cards.

Sources: The NFL informed all 32 teams today in a memo that it prevailed in its grievance vs. the NFLPA and its “team report cards.” An arbitrator determined that the NFLPA’s conduct violated the CBA and ordered it to stop making public any future report cards. pic.twitter.com/mss5WUQjhF

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 13, 2026

The movement was spearheaded by Jets owner Woody Johnson, who was one of the worst-graded owners during the report cards’ run. In the final report cards produced last offseason, Johnson was given a “F” grade, making him the only owner amongst the 32 teams to receive that bottom-of-the-barrel mark.

This is honestly terrible news for everyone involved in the NFL aside from the owners who were not graded well by their own players. The transparency was an amazing feature of the report cards and it actually helped spur change amongst teams who have an ownership group that actually want to do better for their players. Numerous teams saw improvements from the first year of the report cards to the second, and they were also massive for helping lure free agents who wanted as much information as possible before choosing a destination.

Now, because of the worst owner in the NFL, they’re gone.

Sorry Jets fans, but you’re stuck with that one.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...win-grievance-against-nflpa-team-report-cards

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers Daily Links: Friday Open Thread

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 11: head coach Jim Harbaugh of the Los Angeles Chargers looks on during the national anthem prior to an NFL wild card playoff game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:​

The hire of Chris O’Leary as defensive coordinator has caught the attention of the NFL (Chargers.com)

Chargers cornerback Cam Hart recently heaped a ton of praise for new Ravens HC Jesse Minter (Chargers Wire)

Commanders WR Deebo Samuel has been predicted to land with the Chargers in free agency (Charger Report)

Were the Chargers disrespected in ESPN’s latest set of post-Super Bowl power rankings? (Bolt Beat)

NFL News:​

Answering one big question for ever NFL team this offseason (ESPN)

Joey Porter recently went off on former teammate Big Ben on a recent podcast appearance with Cam Heyward (ESPN)

Predicting the next player to take a “Sam Darnold” turn in their career (CBS Sports)

Check out this new first-round mock draft from Dan Parr (NFL.com)

Kendrick Bourne hopes to remain with the 49ers next season (Pro Football Talk)

Realistic goals for all 10 new head coaches in the NFL (Sports Illustrated)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...62986/chargers-daily-links-friday-open-thread

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers predicted to win Super Bowl LXI

The Los Angeles Chargers will have the Super Bowl in their backyard a year from now, but there is a chance that the team could be participating in the big game as opposed to watching it on TV.

ESPN analyst Seth Walder believes the Chargers could win Super Bowl LXI at SoFi Stadium against the Green Bay Packers.

“Chargers over Packers. Am I falling for the Chargers in the offseason, just like we all do every year? Sure. But this time will be different! The 2025 Chargers’ biggest weakness — the offensive line — already has a built-in solution with their two excellent tackles (Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater) returning to health. Add McDaniel as offensive coordinator and I find myself truly believing,“ Walder wrote.

The Chargers have a lot of the tools that are needed in order to be a strong team in the NFL. They have one of the league’s best defenses, along with two strong offensive tackles and potential stars at wide receiver and running back. Unfortunately for the team, they could not stay healthy in the trenches, and their defensive coordinator, Jesse Minter, left to become the Baltimore Ravens head coach.

If the Chargers are able to find the right replacement for mentor and the team can stay healthy, a Super Bowl berth next year is not totally out of the question.

BFTB community, what do you think of the Chargers’ chances of going all the way to the Super Bowl next season? Chime off in the comments section below.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...3046/chargers-predicted-to-win-super-bowl-lxi

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers Daily Links: Thursday Open Thread

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 11: Khalil Mack #52 of the Los Angeles Chargers runs around the edge during an NFL wild card playoff game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:​

Check out the Chargers free agent tracker as they prepare for the new league year (Chargers.com)

Where do the Chargers currently sit in way-too-early 2026 NFL Power Rankings? (Chargers.com)

What does Zion Johnson’s new contract projection look like? (Chargers Wire)

Would the Chargers really take a chance on this disgruntled 49ers wideout? (Bolt Beat)

NFL News:​

Maxx Crosby refuses to throw “gasoline” on the trade rumors surrounding him (NFL.com)

Ranking every starting quarterback from the 2025 NFL season (NFL.com)

Which free agents are most likely to receive the franchise tag from their current team? (CBS Sports)

Past NFL MVPs weighed in on why they think Lamar Jackson regressed in 2025 (ESPN)

Falcons OC Tommy Rees believes there’s benefits to having the QB under center, noting a potential change in how Michael Penix will play in 2026 (Pro Football Talk)

A reason to hope and mope for all 32 teams in 2026 (Sports Illustrated)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...985/chargers-daily-links-thursday-open-thread

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers to hire former NFL LB Sean Spence as LBs coach

PITTSBURGH, PA - DECEMBER 10: Sean Spence #51 of the Pittsburgh Steelers in action during the game against the Baltimore Ravens at Heinz Field on December 10, 2017 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** | Getty Images

The Chargers have finally found their replacement for NaVorro Bowman as their linebackers coach.

Per NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Bolts are hiring former Steelers, Titans, and Colts linebacker Sean Spence to fill the role following Bowman stepping away to spend more time with his family, including his son who is a top high-school basketball prospect. Spence spent the past three seasons with Western Michigan where he most recently coached their pass rushers.

Sources: The #Chargers are hiring Sean Spence as their new inside linebackers coach.

Spence, a former NFL player, most recently coached at Western Michigan and at the Senior Bowl. Under his guidance, Nadame Tucker led the country in sacks and TFLs this past season. pic.twitter.com/4cvRHR4umr

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) February 13, 2026

Spence will follow new Chargers defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary to Los Angeles where the latter helped the former turn the Broncos defense into one of the best units in the country during the 2025 season. Spence personally coached Western Michigan pass rusher Nadame Tucker who ended the year with a nation-leading 14.5 sacks en route to earning First-Team All-MAC honors and being named the MAC Defensive Player of the Year. Tucker was also invited to participate in this year’s Panini Senior Bowl where he competed with the nation’s top senior talent.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...o-hire-former-nfl-lb-sean-spence-as-lbs-coach

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers to hire former Steelers LBs coach Denzel Martin as Asst. LBs coach

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 8: Donte Jackson #26 of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Head coach Denzel Martin celebrate during a game against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 8, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Steelers defeated the Falcons 18-10. (Kara Durrette/Getty Images) | Getty Images

This past Sunday, NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported that the Chargers are hiring former Steelers outside linebackers coach Denzel Martin to be their new assistant linebackers coach under Sean Spence. Martin has been with Pittsburgh under Mike Tomlin since the 2016 season and has worked with notable players such as T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, and Nick Herbig.

Sources: The #Chargers are hiring former #Steelers OLBs coach Denzel Martin as assistant OLBs coach on Jim Harbaugh’s staff.

Martin was in Pittsburgh since 2016 and has worked with the likes of TJ Watt, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, among others. He now joins the Chargers with… pic.twitter.com/V3PwTyrqOl

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) February 15, 2026

Under Martin, Watt was named a First-Team All-Pro selection four times, including during the 2021 season where Watt tied the previous all-time single-season sack record with 22.5. In 2023, Watt recorded 19 sacks and 19 tackles for loss which earned his latest nod to the first team.

After recorded just eight sacks in his first two seasons, Martin coached Highsmith to a career-high 14.5 sacks and five forced fumbles during the 2022 campaign.

This past season, Herbig recorded a career-high 7.5 sacks and 13 tackles for loss to go with an interception, three forced fumbles, and a fumble returned for a touchdown.

Martin played collegiately at the University of Missouri as a linebacker. He got his coaching career started as a graduate assistant in 2015 before earning an opportunity as a scouting assistant with the Steelers.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...ers-lbs-coach-denzel-martin-as-asst-lbs-coach

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Daniel Jeremiah pairs standout TE w/ Chargers in new 2026 mock

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JANUARY 09: Kenyon Sadiq #18 of the Oregon Ducks runs with the ball against the Indiana Hoosiers during the first quarter of the 2025 College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on January 09, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Chargers are in need of trench “weapons” this offseason, not the usual weapons we’ve come to pair with the word in receivers, running backs, etc. However, NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah believes there still may be a place for one more traditional weapon in the new Chargers offense under offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel.

In Jeremiah’s Mock Draft 2.0, he actually has the Chargers snagging standout Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq with the 22nd-overall pick.

“Sadiq is the perfect weapon for a creative offensive mind like Mike McDaniel,” says Jeremiah. “With the tight end joining Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, Tre Harris and Oronde Gadsden II, the OC would have a lot to work with in his first year with the Charger.”

So it’s obvious the Chargers are not at a lack of weapons. Jeremiah just named four of them who all can lead a game in stats during any given week. That was proven this past season, but it looks like the long-time draft scout believes there is even more room for potential given the hire of McDaniel. After all, it’s not like we haven’t seen success before from offenses that love to utilize two tight end sets.

If that is the direction McDaniel wants to go, I will have trust in his vision, but Herbert still will need time to throw to those tight ends, meaning the trenches must be the top priority. Maybe if the Chargers land both Tyler Linderbaum and David Edwards in free agency they can afford to use the pick on someone like Sadiq, but until then, I can’t say I believe this is the best way to go in the first round.

TE Kenyon Sadiq last night: 8 targets, 8 catches, 96 yards, 1 TD (would have had a 2nd TD if this was a better throw).

Started as the clear TE1…will finish as the clear TE1. pic.twitter.com/EeuhWu6YB1

— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) November 15, 2025

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...pairs-standout-te-w-chargers-in-new-2026-mock

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Zion Johnson named Chargers player who could use a fresh start

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 11: Zion Johnson #77 of the Los Angeles Chargers walks off the field during halftime of an AFC wild card playoff football game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images) | Getty Images

If there was any kind of bright spot along the interior of the offensive line in 2025, it was that Zion Johnson took a step forward as a run blocker. He was one of the best in the NFL, in fact, but that did not matter when those playing around him were consistently amongst the worst performers each week at their respective positions.

In contrast to Johnson’s success rate as a run blocker, it was his pass protection that left a lot to be desired. The first-round pedigree has not been matched with his play and that’s why ESPN’s Aaron Schatz believes that Johnson is the pick for a Chargers player that could use a change of scenery in 2026.

“Johnson hasn’t lived up to his first-round potential in his four years with the Chargers. Last season, his 87.4% pass block win rate ranked 62nd out of 65 qualifying guards. There might be another coaching staff out there that knows how to get the best out of him. Johnson is still a strong run blocker, as his 79.3% run block win rate last season ranked second among guards, behind only Seattle rookie Grey Zabel.”

It’s always interesting to see how different platforms and grading companies differ on the same player. Above, Schatz notes that Johnson was one of the worst guards in the NFL in their pass block win rate formula. However, Pro Football Focus had Johnson as one of the better guards in pass protection per their pass blocking efficiency rating.

The thing is, we all have watched him play over the past four seasons and fans are aware what is and is not working. At this point, I wouldn’t be surprised at either outcome. If Johnson is re-signed, I’d agree it was smart in that there’s one less box to check at solidifying the starting group for 2026. If he signs elsewhere, then I’d understand the team wanting to move on and strive for a better option that may also no cost as much.

A step forward for Zion Johnson in a contract year:

Second in ESPN's IOL run block win rate
T-15th/60 in PFF's Pass Blocking Efficiency Rating
T-5th/60 in PFF PBE True Pass Sets

Not to mention a fourth year in a row of 1000+ snaps played. pic.twitter.com/2r0jhj2pwA

— Tyler Schoon (@tylerjschoon) December 30, 2025

But what do you all think? Should the Chargers re-sign Johnson or are they better off letting him walk in hopes of upgrading left guard this offseason? Let us know what you think below!

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...d-chargers-player-who-could-use-a-fresh-start

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers Daily Links: Wednesday Open Thread

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 11: Ladd McConkey #15 of the Los Angeles Chargers signals as he lines up during an NFL wild card playoff game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:​

Check out the latest mock draft tracker for the Chargers (Chargers.com)

Why NFL insiders believe Mike McDaniel can take Justin Herbert and the Chargers offense to the next level (Chargers.com)

Is Odafe Oweh a candidate for the franchise tag? (Chargers Wire)

Standouts and sleepers from the Chargers’ 2025 draft class (Charger Report)

NFL News:​

These players could use a fresh start in 2026 with a new team (ESPN)

Mike Evans plans to play in 2026, will test the free agent market (ESPN)

Ranking the top five players at their respective positions in the 2026 NFL Draft (CBS Sports)

The 49ers will play a game in both Australia and Mexico during the 2026 season (NFL.com)

Will the Jets end up using the franchise tag on Breece Hall? (Pro Football Talk)

One move every NFC North team should make this offseason (Sports Illustrated)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...59/chargers-daily-links-wednesday-open-thread

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers Daily Links: Thursday Open Thread

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 12: Head coach Jim Harbaugh (L) and offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel (R) of the Los Angeles Chargers ask an usher for directions to their seats before a game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Dallas Mavericks at Crypto.com Arena on February 12, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Wally Skalij/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:​

See which Chargers quarterbacks made Bleacher Report’s Top 99 all-time rankings (Chargers.com)

The Chargers made a massive donation to Lulu’s Place (Chargers.com)

Experts believe Zion Johnson’s best fit would be with a division rival (Chargers Wire)

Should the Chargers avoid signing Wyatt Teller? (Bolt Beat)

NFL News:​

Which teams should be interested in WR A.J. Brown? (ESPN)

Pete Prisco ranked the top 100 free agents of the 2026 offseason (CBS Sports)

Chiefs WR Rashee Rice has been accused of domestic violence (CBS Sports)

These eight free agents could have a misvalued market this offseason (NFL.com)

Ronald Curry is reuniting with Sean Payton to coach the Broncos wide receivers (Pro Football Talk)

Declan Doyle knows building trust with Lamar Jackson won’t happen overnight (Sports Illustrated)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...060/chargers-daily-links-thursday-open-thread

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Experts pick best free agent fits for Odafe Oweh, Khalil Mack

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 27: Odafe Oweh #98 of the Los Angeles Chargers enters the field during player introductions prior to an NFL football game against the Houston Texans at SoFi Stadium on December 27, 2025 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Until the new league year starts and we begin to find out where all the most notable free agents will land for the 2026 season, we’re going to be hearing a ton about predictions and best fits. New from ESPN, three current Chargers have landed on ESPN’s list of the top 50 2026 free agents.

Let’s go ahead and check out where they ended up ranked along with the team analyst Matt Bowen believes is their best fit.

9.) EDGE Odafe Oweh​

Best fit via Bowen: Los Angeles Chargers

What Bowen had to say:

“Oweh’s production in L.A. after being traded from the Ravens should keep him with the Chargers under new coordinator Chris O’Leary. He had 7.5 sacks with the Chargers in the regular season and added three in their wild-card loss to the Patriots. He’s an explosive rusher whom O’Leary can scheme for one-on-one matchups.”

Oweh was astounding for the Chargers down the final stretch of the season after getting his legs under him following the trade. Notching 7.5 sacks in 12 games is solid and the three he had in the team’s biggest game of the season shows he has the “show up” factor when it matters.

There’s going to be some tug-of-war in regards to whether he’ll stay in LA or possibly head back to Baltimore to play under Jesse Minter, but I believe this is a must-sign for the Chargers, regardless of

22.) EDGE Khalil Mack​

Best fit via Bowen: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

What Bowen had to say:

“The Bucs had 37 sacks last season, which ranked 18th in the league. They need to address the edges of their pass rush, and while Mack might be seen a situational player for Todd Bowles’ defense, the defender can still create disruption and get home to the quarterback. An elbow injury forced Mack to sit out five of the Chargers’ games early in the 2025 season, yet he finished with 5.5 sacks and 28 pressures.”

Mack missed a good chunk of the season but still turned in an impactful performance with his all-around game. He is still elite at setting the edge and going through the faces of opposing offensive tackles, even if the numbers say he’s missed a step or two.

Mack’s number one goal is still to win a playoff game and then a Super Bowl. The Chargers have seemed like a place where he could at least attain that first goal, but the postseason win still eludes him despite playing for three different franchises in his career.

I would not blame Mack for feeling like he needs a final change of scenery to invite a playoff win, but that obviously depends on there being a contender who wants to add him at his preferred price tag. The Chargers have the money to sign him. So do the Bucs, whom Bowen believes would be a good fit for the veteran.

33.) OG Zion Johnson​

Best fit via Bowen: Las Vegas Raiders

What Bowen had to say:

“The Raiders can upgrade their offensive line with Johnson. He’d play the left guard spot in Klint Kubiak’s system, using his mobility in the zone run game. Plus, Johnson’s youth and durability fit the rebuild in Las Vegas. He is just entering his prime playing years, with a 90.7% pass block win rate over his four-year career with the Chargers.”

Johnson was more than serviceable in 2025. However, that ceiling that he look to raise this past season was also kept from rising too high given the players he was forced to go to battle with on either side of him this week. No Rashawn Slater and Bradley Bozeman at center was a tough draw. He still played well enough to potentially earn a second contract with the Chargers despite not necessarily living up to his first-round billing.

If he winds up signing elsewhere, the Chargers will unfortunately have one more hole to fill along their offensive interior. Luckily for them, there are some decent players who shouldn’t cost too much that could come in an be an upgrade over any of the three interior players from 2025. If they can land center Tyler Linderbaum, or even guard David Andrews, they’d be in a great place heading into the NFL Draft.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...rts-pick-best-fits-for-odafe-oweh-khalil-mack