The Chargers received mixed reviews for their offseason moves.
General manager Joe Hortiz received some criticism for his conservative approach in free agency, despite having the most cap space out of any team in the league. Several fans were puzzled by the Chargers’ decision to sign Cole Strange to a two-year, $13 million deal, which felt like an overpay for a mediocre player.
But the Chargers did add speed to their backfield by signing Keaton Mitchell, who is coming off an injury but is a proven talent in the running back room.
Nevertheless, the Chargers roster improved via free agency as well as the NFL draft.
Tyler Sullivan of CBS Sports gave the Chargers a ‘B’ grade for their moves in the offseason, highlighting the added protection for quarterback Justin Herbert and the signing of tight end David Njoku.
“Los Angeles will improve along the offensive line from the simple fact that they’ll be getting starting tackles Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater back in the fold after each suffered season-ending injuries last year. Still, that didn’t stop the Chargers from doubling down to ensure Justin Herbert stays upright, signing center Tyler Biadasz in free agency along with interior lineman Cole Strange. They also used their second-round pick on interior lineman Jake Slaughter,” Sullivan writes.
“The arrival of first-round edge rusher Akeem Mesidor should help cushion the blow of losing Odafe Oweh in free agency, while David Njoku gives Herbert another pass-catching threat.”
The Chargers are looking to win their first playoff game in the Jim Harbaugh era, and if LA can compete deep into the postseason, then offseason grades won’t matter.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: NFL analyst grades Chargers’ offseason moves
Reporting by Valentina Martinez, Chargers Wire / Chargers Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
