Chargers GM Signals Draft-focused Strategy Following Ravens’ Model
Ahead of the NFL free agency period, Los Angeles Chargers General Manager Joe Hortiz outlined a strategy prioritizing the draft, a ideology honed during his extensive tenure with the Baltimore Ravens.
Hortiz emphasized a balanced approach: “Don’t make decisions in free agency, and then plan to adjust accordingly in the draft… Stay focused on the draft and use free agency to build around it.” This approach mirrors the Ravens’ long-standing practice of measured free agency spending, targeting players who can contribute to a Super Bowl-caliber team.
The Ravens’ success through this method highlights a lasting model for contention. However,Hortiz acknowledged that other paths exist,referencing the Philadelphia Eagles’ acquisition of running back Saquon Barkley,a move that propelled them to Super Bowl LIX victory,as an example of a more aggressive free agency strategy.
Chargers’ Offseason Strategy: Depth Over Splashy Signings Raises Questions
Two weeks into NFL free agency,the Los Angeles Chargers’ approach,prioritizing depth and short-term signings over high-profile acquisitions,has sparked questions despite entering free agency with ample salary cap space.
Chargers’ Cautious Free Agency Approach
Despite possessing over $90 million in cap space, the Chargers have largely refrained from pursuing major free agents, focusing instead on one-year deals and players to bolster depth. This strategy contrasts with expectations given their financial flexibility and numerous roster needs.
Addressing Offensive Line Struggles: Mekhi Becton Addition
The Chargers’ moast significant move this offseason was signing guard Mekhi Becton, who revitalized his career last season in Philadelphia. This addition aims to address the Chargers’ struggles in the running game, where they ranked poorly in run-blocking win rate in the previous season. The team finished 17th in the NFL in rushing yards per game, a low mark for a Jim Harbaugh-coached team.
Uncertainty Surrounds Trey Pipkins’ Future
As the Chargers navigate the remainder of the offseason,a key question remains regarding the future of right guard Trey Pipkins and how the team plans to solidify the offensive line.
Chargers Bolster Offensive line with Versatile Guard Tevita Becton, hinting at Shift in Strategy
Los Angeles, CA – In a move signaling a commitment to a more physical and run-oriented offense, the Los Angeles Chargers have signed guard Tevita Becton. The acquisition suggests a strategic shift under head coach Jim Harbaugh,who has historically prioritized a dominant rushing attack.This signing perhaps makes current Chargers guard,Storm Norton,expendable.
Harbaugh’s Vision: A Ground-and-Pound Approach
Since taking the helm in January, Harbaugh has been vocal about his intention to establish a powerful running game – a hallmark of his previous successful teams. During his tenure as head coach of the San Francisco 49ers (2011-2014), Harbaugh consistently fielded top-tier rushing offenses, never ranking outside the top eight in total rushing yards.
Becton’s Impact on the Chargers’ Offensive Line
Becton, who distinguished himself as one of the league’s premier run-blocking guards in his debut season at the position in 2023, is expected to play a significant role in revitalizing the Chargers’ ground game. His addition is aimed at replicating the type of rushing attacks that have defined Harbaugh’s teams in the past.
Implications for Existing players: Norton Could Be on the Way out
The Chargers had previously experimented with moving Norton from right tackle to right guard after drafting tackle Joe Alt in the first round last year. Though, the transition proved largely ineffective.
Norton struggled particularly in run blocking, ranking poorly among guards in run block win rate.Becton’s superior performance in this area makes Norton expendable, with Chargers potentially saving millions if they trade or release the player.
Keenan Allen Reunion? Chargers WR Mike Williams Campaigns for Star’s Return
Los Angeles – Could a Chargers legend be returning to the fold? wide receiver Mike Williams, a former teammate of Keenan Allen, is publicly advocating for the star receiver to return to Los Angeles. Allen, a beloved figure in Chargers history, was traded to the Chicago Bears last offseason after failing to agree to a contract extension.
From Chicago to Free Agency: Allen’s Availability Sparks Hope
After a less-than-stellar season in Chicago,Allen finds himself a free agent,opening the door for a potential reunion with the Chargers. Williams, who spent his first seven seasons playing alongside Allen, expressed his enthusiasm for the possibility. “I’d love it,” Williams said.”Why not?”
A Shocking Trade and Subsequent Roster Moves Shape the Offseason
The trade that sent Allen to Chicago for a fourth-round pick in 2025 reportedly stunned the receiver.The Chargers’ current general manager, who took over in February, deemed the two sides to far apart on salary. Further complicating matters, Williams himself was released by the Chargers amidst financial constraints in March. He spent the 2024 season with both the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Jets before ultimately returning to Los Angeles.
Chargers’ Offensive Inconsistency Fuels Receiver Speculation
The Chargers’ offensive struggles last season hindered their playoff aspirations. With Allen now available, and Williams actively recruiting his former teammate, the possibility of a potent receiving duo reuniting in Los Angeles is generating significant buzz.
Chargers Aim to Bolster Offense After Playoff Struggles
The Los Angeles Chargers are expected to focus on offensive improvements in the upcoming draft to support quarterback Justin Herbert, aiming to avoid a repeat of their disappointing playoff performance against the Houston Texans. Herbert faced intense pressure, throwing a career-high four interceptions, and the Chargers struggled to advance the ball.
McConkey’s Record-Setting Performance a Radiant Spot
Rookie wide receiver Ladd McConkey stood out in the playoff loss, setting an NFL rookie record with nine receptions for 197 yards and a touchdown. Despite McConkey’s performance, the game highlighted the Chargers’ need for additional offensive weapons.
Draft Strategy Focuses on Skill Positions
With the draft approaching, the Chargers are likely to target a tight end or wide receiver to inject more explosiveness into their offense. The team’s new General Manager, has a history of drafting successful tight ends, including pros like Mark Andrews and Todd Heap.However, the Baltimore Ravens, struggled to find pro bowl wide outs, before drafting Zay Flowers in 2023.
Hortiz’s Early Success with McConkey Bodes Well
Hortiz already appears to be on the right track with receiver selections in Los Angeles, having drafted McConkey in the second round of his first draft. The Chargers’ success in 2025 hinges on identifying and developing impactful offensive talent to complement Herbert and McConkey.
coudl the Chargers bring back Keenan Allen to bolster their receiving corps?
Chargers’ Offseason Strategy: A Q&A
Get the lowdown on the Los Angeles Chargers’ offseason moves adn draft plans:
Q&A
- What’s the main strategy for the Chargers this offseason?
- The Chargers, under new General manager Joe Hortiz, are prioritizing the draft and a “build-through-the-draft” approach, similar to the Baltimore Ravens, where Hortiz previously worked [[1](https://www.chargers.com/)]. They are focusing on depth and short-term signings in free agency.
- What does this mean for free agency?
- Despite having significant cap space ($90 million+), the Chargers are being cautious in free agency, opting for one-year deals and players to add depth rather than pursuing big-name acquisitions. This contrasts with the Philadelphia Eagles’ more aggressive approach, as referenced in the article.
- How does the addition of Mekhi Becton impact the team?
- Signing offensive guard Mekhi Becton is a significant move. It addresses the Chargers’ struggles in the running game,where they ranked poorly in run-blocking win rate. Becton is expected to bolster the offensive line and help establish a more physical, run-oriented offence.
- What’s the deal with Trey Pipkins?
- The future of right guard Trey Pipkins is uncertain. With the addition of Becton, the team is looking to solidify the offensive line, and Pipkins’ role is now in question.
- What’s Jim Harbaugh’s vision for the offense?
- Head Coach Jim Harbaugh intends to establish a powerful running game, a hallmark of his past successful teams. During his tenure with the San Francisco 49ers, his teams consistently had top-tier rushing offenses.
- What about Keenan Allen? Could he return?
- Wide receiver Mike Williams is advocating for Keenan Allen to return. Allen was traded to the Chicago Bears last offseason.Now a free agent, a reunion is absolutely possible. The Chargers’ offensive struggles last season have fueled speculation about bolstering the receiving corps.
- What are the Chargers’ draft priorities?
- The Chargers are expected to focus on offensive improvements in the draft, likely targeting a tight end or wide receiver to give quarterback Justin Herbert more weapons. The team wants to avoid a repeat of their disappointing playoff performance, where Herbert threw a career-high four interceptions.
- What’s the impact of Ladd McConkey’s performance?
- Rookie Ladd mcconkey had a record-setting performance in the playoff loss,setting a new NFL rookie record with nine receptions for 197 yards and a touchdown. His success in the playoff game highlights the need for additional offensive firepower.
- What’s Joe Hortiz’s draft history?
- hortiz has a history of drafting successful tight ends, including players like mark andrews and Todd Heap. His early success with Ladd McConkey is a good sign for the Chargers.
The Chargers’ offseason moves indicate a shift towards a more balanced approach, focusing on long-term development and strategic acquisitions. Keep an eye on the draft to see how the Chargers build their team for the future!
