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Los Angeles Chargers Offseason Needs: Run Defense Tops The List

By Jacob Schyvinck

Dec 16, 2021; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers head coach Brandon Staley reacts against the Kansas City Chiefs in the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 16, 2021; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers head coach Brandon Staley reacts against the Kansas City Chiefs in the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jul 29, 2021; Costa Mesa, CA, United States; Los Angeles Chargers tight end Tre McKitty (88) during training camp at Jack Hammett Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 29, 2021; Costa Mesa, CA, United States; Los Angeles Chargers tight end Tre McKitty (88) during training camp at Jack Hammett Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Tight End

It’s probably last on the list for the Los Angeles Chargers, but there’s no harm in looking to upgrade a position that doesn’t have much proven talent going forward in 2022. The Chargers did draft Tre’ McKitty in the third round in 2021, and should get Donald Parham back. But, if they want a do-it-all guy akin to Hunter Henry, they’ll have to look to free agency and the draft.

Dalton Schultz would be the likely main target in free agency if they want a versatile player. Schultz played inline in a lot of run concepts in Dallas, and was impressive setting an edge on pin/pull concepts. He offers plenty as a pass catcher as well and would likely become a favorite for Herbert early on. If they want another pass catcher, Evan Engram could benefit from a fresh start.

The 2022 NFL Draft has plenty to offer at the tight end position, as it looks to be one of the deeper classes in recent memory. Two players that offer strong floors at the position and an impact in both phases are Cade Otton and Jake Ferguson. Otton didn’t get much run as a receiver in 2021, but there’s enough there to work with and he’s rock solid working inline. Ferguson offers a bit more, with the reliable hands and impressive route tree for his stature.

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