Upgrading the Offensive Arsenal
The Chargers have yet to bolster the group of weapons surrounding their star quarterback despite the offseason efforts. With more time available, the team is expected to explore options in both the NFL Draft and potential trades to enhance their offensive lineup.
Potential Trade Scenario
One intriguing proposal involves exchanging the Chargers’ fifth and sixth-round draft picks for Dallas Goedert, a tight end who carries an $11.8 million cap hit. This move would provide Los Angeles with an established pass-catching threat while allowing them additional flexibility in developing their draft strategy.
Assessing Dallas Goedert’s Value
Dallas Goedert, now 30, has experienced a decline in durability over recent seasons. With 15 games missed in the past three years, questions have arisen about his long-term reliability. However, when healthy, he has proven to be productive. In the most recent season he played 10 games, recording 42 receptions for 496 yards and two touchdowns. His contributions in the postseason—adding 17 catches for 215 yards and a touchdown—demonstrate his potential impact in critical moments.
Impact on Draft Strategy and Roster Flexibility
Acquiring Goedert could significantly influence the Chargers’ approach in the NFL Draft. With the possibility of selecting a promising tight end from Michigan in the first round, securing an established player like Goedert would allow the team to redirect valuable draft capital to address other needs. The potential trade reflects a calculated risk, leveraging the willingness to manage a higher cap hit for a player who has displayed high performance when fit.
Balancing Risk and Potential Reward
While the Chargers face the uncertainty of integrating a player with a history of injuries, the prospect of gaining an experienced tight end may provide the necessary boost for their quarterback’s supporting cast. The trade scenario is viewed as a strategic move that not only adds offensive prowess but also creates room to maneuver in future selections. In this context, the decision to pursue Goedert represents a balancing act between immediate capability and long-term roster management.
