AFC Contender May Sign $28 Million Free Agent

AFC Contender Los Angeles Chargers may sign $28 million free agent and former Carolina Panther wide receiver, DJ Chark before this year’s NFL Draft. The Chargers met with the former Pro Bowler this week, who could give the team solid options around their young pass-catchers. The team has a real need at the position so this makes sense that they want to make a move before the draft. However, the Chargers may take a wide receiver early in this year’s draft with the No. 5 overall pick in the first round.

The team plans to use that but it wouldn’t hurt for them to add a veteran weapon to their receiving corps while adding young talent. The Chargers have been looking around this offseason and trying to find the right pieces for their offense. However, they haven’t made any moves which could indicate they may wait until the draft to add a veteran. The release of Mike Williams and trading away Keenan Allen shows a real need for quarterback Justin Herbert.

Chark spent last season with the Panthers, notching 35 catches for 524 yards and five touchdowns. He was poised to provide Carolina a deep threat following his stint with the Lions. However, his ankle surgery and dealing with injuries prevented him from producing a full year with the Panthers. He did manage to play 15 games with them but only averaged 15 yards per reception.

Chark would only be providing a security blanket for the signal-caller so a wide receiver in this year’s draft is a must. However, it’s still possible the Chargers could take another receiver after interest in Marquez Valdes-Scantling this offseason too. Both have the experience to become starters for the two latter pieces in the likes of Quentin Johnson and Josh Palmer.

AFC Contender Los Angeles Chargers May Sign $28 Million Free Agent DJ Chark

WR1 is the Main Priority

This hasn’t been the most unique offseason for a team that’s entering a new under Jim Harbaugh’s belt. The Chargers almost let go of their defensive stars due to salary cap but they were able to work out a restructured deal. However, this comes with sacrifice since two of their receivers are gone. This means Herbert will be without his two weapons on the season if there aren’t any moves.

Wide receiver isn’t the only priority since Austin Ekeler took his talents with the Washington Commanders. However, they were able to sign J.K. Dobbins to a one-year deal to fill that hole. This means the Chargers haven’t been productive in finding the next Allen and Williams replacement for Herbert. Chark isn’t the only wideout that’s out there so don’t expect Los Angeles to focus on one.

Many receivers like Odell Beckham Jr., Michael Thomas and Michael Gallup are still available as options. Many could expect the Chargers like other teams to take their time before the season starts to choose one. If the Chargers don’t choose Chark as one of their receivers for the future, then here are some destinations he can land.

Team Fits for Chark

Chark isn’t going to produce numbers like Beckham or Thomas but he provides a short-term option for teams. The Kansas City Chiefs are yet to add a receiver after the Rashee Rice case. Even if he returns, there’s no chance that he’ll get up to speed quickly. Marquise Brown is a good option but they’re one receiver away from a disaster.

The Dallas Cowboys are another option if the team is interested and Chark is willing to team up with one of the best, CeeDee Lamb. This would provide America’s team relief after the release of Gallup and needing a quick solution to pair with Brandin Cooks. A team that would jumpstart Chark’s career quickly would be if he joined forces with Lamar Jackson in Baltimore. The last thing the Ravens want to avoid is putting all the pressure on their most productive receiver, Zay Flowers.