The Chargers won’t be as aggressive as they have been in recent years when it comes to signing free agents.
While they’re cash-strapped, general manager Tom Telesco will likely make some moves to have some spendings available to them so they can sign some low-cost players.
That said, I will list one pending free agent from each team in the NFL that could be a realistic target for L.A.
Next up is the NFC East.
Cowboys: QB Cooper Rush
Chase Daniel and Easton Stick are set to be free agents, and it’s difficult to see a scenario where they are brought back. So instead, it would make sense for the Chargers to get someone well-versed in offensive coordinator Kellen Moore’s system to be the new backup quarterback to Justin Herbert. This season, Rush was 4-1 as Dallas’ starter in place of an injured Dak Prescott. Rush has 125 of 212 passing (59 completion percentage) for 1,475 yards, eight touchdowns, and four interceptions.
Eagles: S Marcus Epps
Nasir Adderley will be a free agent. JT Woods, who struggled to see the field in his rookie season, is still a project. Alohi Gilman played well this past season. But the Chargers still need more playmakers at safety. Epps is excellent against the run, as evident from an 84.4 run defense grade last season and an 87.7 grade the year before. He is solid in coverage and has versatility, having logged most of his reps from the free safety spot but also with experience in the box and the slot. Furthermore, Epps is still youthful, being only 27 years old.
Commanders: EDGE Efe Obada
Adding depth at the edge defender position is essential for the Chargers this off-season. Signed to a one-year contract last year, Obada provided a veteran presence and depth inside and outside. He had his second-best NFL season with four sacks in 2022. He also had 26 quarterback pressures and a career-high 14 run stops.
Giants: WR Richie James
The Chargers need to inject speed into their offense, something James has. With experience from the slot and outside, James knows how to get good separation, stretch the field and create yards after the catch. He’s also competitive as a blocker. James is coming off the most productive season to date. He posted a career-high 57 receptions for 569 yards, four touchdowns, and added 24 punt returns for 174 yards.
