
The Los Angeles Chargers worked out former Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster and former San Francisco 49ers receiver Ronnie Bell, according to Chargers beat writer Alex Insdorf.
The evaluations come as Los Angeles searches for answers to its offensive struggles. The Chargers fell to 0-5 after losing 23-17 to the Denver Broncos on October 11, leaving the team desperate for improvements.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh has also struggled to find answers. Asked about his message to the winless team, Harbaugh responded, “Yeah, I don’t know what that message is.”
Per source: Chargers worked out WR JuJu Smith-Schuster and WR Ronnie Bell today
— Alex Insdorf (@alexinsdorf99) October 13, 2026
Injuries have added to the team’s problems at receiver. Ladd McConkey is considered week to week, while KeAndre Lambert-Smith remains on injured reserve.
The Chargers signed Marquez Valdes-Scantling in September, but the latest workouts suggest the team is still exploring its options. Adding another receiver could give quarterback Justin Herbert more help as Los Angeles tries to revive its passing attack.
Smith-Schuster offers championship experience from his time with the Chiefs, including their 2022 Super Bowl-winning season. His experience as a possession receiver could make him an option for an offense searching for consistency.
Bell presents a younger alternative. His blocking ability could fit Harbaugh’s physical offensive approach, although the Chargers must assess whether he can provide meaningful production as a receiver.
Los Angeles has a bye in Week 7, giving the coaching staff additional time to evaluate potential roster moves and work through its injury concerns before returning to action.
The Chargers currently sit at the bottom of the AFC West with a 0-5 record. Meanwhile, the Kansas City Chiefs lead the division at 4-0, increasing the pressure on Los Angeles to find solutions.
Neither workout guarantees a signing. The Chargers must determine whether Smith-Schuster or Bell can strengthen the receiving group enough to earn a place on the roster as the team attempts to turn its season around.
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