Chargers give Justin Herbert new weapon by signing TE Tyler Conklin

The Los Angeles Chargers often run a variety of two tight-end sets, and they needed more firepower at the position heading into the 2025 season. 

On March 21, the Chargers found a reliable option, signing former New York Jets TE Tyler Conklin to a one-year contract with a $3 million base salary. 

While the Chargers could target one of the top tight ends in the NFL Draft, as it currently stands, it'll be Conklin battling it out with Will Dissly for TE1 duties. While Dissly had a career year in 2024, it was just the first time he had 50 receptions in a season. Conklin has had 50 or more receptions in the last four years (61, 58, 61, 51). 

Conklin has showcased steady hands in his career, and per Chargers team reporter Omar Navarro, Conklin was one of only two tight ends with at least 50 targets not to drop a pass last season. While not exactly a household name due to being on some bad Jets teams, Conklin has ranked in the top tier at his position in the last few years. Per ESPN, Conklin ranks tied at No. 8 at TE with 170 receptions over the past three seasons. 

Conklin, 29, has missed only one game in the last four years, and his $3 million salary looks like a bargain based on his durability and consistency alike. The Chargers ranked No. 19 in passing offense last year and the addition of Conklin could help quarterback Justin Herbert and the passing offense improve during the second year of the Jim Harbaugh era. Conklin's track record would indicate that he'll be a player who Herbert will grow to trust and rely upon throughout the 2025 campaign.