Insider Says Chargers NEED To Be Aggressive At The Trade Deadline

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Popper pointed out that “the more likely position to target is running back,” given the team’s injury situation. Both Omarion Hampton (ankle) and Najee Harris (Achilles) are on injured reserve — Harris for the season and Hampton expected back at some point — leaving Kimani Vidal and Hassan Haskins as the only healthy backs. Haskins has already been ruled doubtful against the Vikings on Thursday night.

Vidal flashed promise with 124 yards and a touchdown against Miami, but the Chargers are looking for experience behind him. League sources have linked Los Angeles to Cleveland’s Jerome Ford and the Jets’ Breece Hall as potential trade targets. Ford, averaging 4.4 yards per carry, could be a low-cost addition, while Hall represents a more aggressive swing if the Jets decide to sell.

Offensive Line Remains a Challenge

Popper cautioned that “functional pieces at that position are hard to find on the trade market,” referring to offensive tackle help. The Chargers have struggled in protection, ranking 28th in pass-block win rate while surrendering 18 sacks — tied for fifth-most in the NFL. With Rashawn Slater out for the year and rookie Joe Alt sidelined by a high-ankle sprain, Los Angeles has reportedly explored options like the Giants’ Evan Neal, a potential buy-low depth addition.

Popper also noted that “the Oweh trade ate up a little more than $7 million of the Chargers’ remaining cap space,” meaning any further move will likely require contract restructures.

At 4–2, the Chargers are in contention but far from complete. As both Popper and Russini reported, Los Angeles isn’t standing pat — and with the deadline fast approaching, reinforcements could soon be on the way.