The Los Angeles Chargers made significant changes to their offensive roster this offseason, most notably trading veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen to the Chicago Bears for a fourth-round draft pick. This move, coupled with the release of Mike Williams and the departures of Austin Ekeler and Gerald Everett in free agency, leaves the Chargers’ receiving corps significantly depleted.
Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine criticized the Allen trade, citing the minimal return and the lack of proven talent remaining in the Chargers’ receiving unit. The departure of key offensive weapons raises concerns about the team’s ability to support quarterback Justin Herbert in the upcoming season.
Justin Herbert Faces a Challenging 2024 Season
The Chargers’ offseason moves place Justin Herbert in a difficult position for the 2024 season. While the hiring of new head coach Jim Harbaugh has been praised, the loss of Herbert’s most reliable targets raises questions about his ability to succeed. Herbert already faced criticism prior to these changes, and the depleted receiving corps adds to the pressure on the young quarterback entering his fifth NFL season.
Herbert’s remaining receiving options include Quentin Johnston, a 2023 first-round pick who had a modest rookie season with 38 receptions for 431 yards and two touchdowns. The Chargers also have Joshua Palmer and second-round draft pick Ladd McConkey. While these players possess potential, their lack of experience raises concerns about their ability to consistently perform at a high level.
Herbert’s Performance and Contract Under Scrutiny
Despite missing the final four games of the 2023 season due to a finger injury, Herbert threw for 3,134 yards, 20 touchdowns, and seven interceptions with a 65.1% completion rate and a 93.2 passer rating. However, his 30-32 record as a starter since being drafted in 2020 has led to questions about his overall effectiveness and whether he justifies the massive $262.5 million contract extension he signed.
The 2024 season will be crucial for Herbert to prove his ability to lead the Chargers to success despite the significant changes to the offensive personnel. The pressure is on for Herbert to elevate the play of his young receivers and demonstrate that he is worthy of his lucrative contract. The success of the Chargers in 2024 hinges on Herbert’s ability to overcome these challenges and perform at an elite level.
